Sunday, February 14, 2010

Ancient India : The Great Indian Kings

The Great Indian Kings

Vikramaditya An ideal king who was as wise as he was brave and strong. He did not want kingship, but when the people needed him, became king. Matchless in war and matchless in forgiveness, an excellent ruler, he won the hearts of his people. Vikramaditya - The Creator of an Era About 850 years ago the 'Chalukya- Vikrama Era' was in vogue in Karnataka. Vikramaditya the Sixth came to the throne on the 26th of February 1077A.D. The Chalukya-Vikrama Era commenced from that date. This shows his power and greatness. He defeated a number of kings and proved his valour. Can we respect a person as a great man, just because he is physically very strong or because he has an army and is powerful? Surely we cannot. The giants are said to have been very strong. All were afraid of them, but no one respected them. People hated them. One should have the wisdom to use one's strength for the benefit of others. A horse may be swift as the wind, but he needs reins to control him. In the same way power needs wisdom. Vikramaditya was both valiant and able. In spite of constant wars during his reign, the subjects lived without fear. His motto was to rule solely for the welfare of the people. In addition to this he was generous and noble. He treated a king, Jagaddeva by name, with such affection and grace that Jagaddeva gave up his kingdom andcame away to Vikramaditya's court. Vikramaditya the Sixth was second to none in valor. Many kingdoms were under his thumb but he used his might to help the good and punish the wicked. In every way he was worthy to give an era his name.

Medieval History of India

The Mughal Empire

In India, the Mughal Empire was one of the greatest empires ever. The Mughal Empire ruled hundreds of millions of people. India became united under one rule, and had very prosperous cultural and political years during the Mughal rule. There were many Muslim and Hindu kingdoms split all throughout India until the founders of the Mughal Empire came. There were some men such as Babar, grandson to the Great Asian conqueror Tamerlane and the conqueror Genghis Khan from the northern region of Ganges, river valley, who decided to take over Khyber, and eventually, all of India.

Babar (1526-1530): the great grandson of Tamerlane and Genghis Khan, was the first Mughal emperor in India. He confronted and defeated Lodhi in 1526 at the first battle of Panipat, and so came to establish the Mughal Empire in India. Babar ruled until 1530, and was succeeded by his son Humayun.

Humayun (1530-1540 and 1555-1556): the eldest son of Babar, succeeded his father and became the second emperor of the Mughal Empire. He ruled India for nearly a decade but was ousted by Sher Shah Suri, the Afghan ruler. Humayun wandered for about 15 years after his defeat. Meanwhile, Sher Shah Suri died and Humayun was able to defeat his successor, Sikandar Suri and regain his crown of the Hindustan. However, soon after, he died in 1556 at a young age of 48 years.

Sher Shah Suri (1540-1545): was an Afghan leader who took over the Mughal Empire after defeating Humayun in 1540. Sher Shah occupied the throne of Delhi for not more than five years, but his reign proved to be a landmark in the Sub-continent. As a king, he has several achievements in his credit. He established an efficient public administration. He set up a revenue collection system based on the measurement of land. Justice was provided to the common man. Numerous civil works were carried out during his short reign; planting of trees, wells and building of Sarai (inns) for travellers was done. Roads were laid; it was under his rule that the Grand Trunk road from Delhi to Kabul was built. The currency was also changed to finely minted silver coins called Dam. However, Sher Shah did not survive long after his accession on the throne and died in 1545 after a short reign of five years.

shoka

The Wheel which adorns the flag of free India has kept his memory green. Lord of a vast empire, after a great victory sick of violence and took an oath never to fight again.He was an Ideal ruler.

"All men are my children. I am like a father to them. As every father desires the good and the happiness of his children, I wish that all men should be happy always." These are the words of an emperor who lived two thousand and three hundred years ago. We see in history how even mere chieftains grew arrogant and used their powers selfishly and unjustly. But the emperor who said the above words ruled over the greater part of India. He had the power of life and death over millions of his subjects. Is it surprising that free India remembers him with admiration? This emperor was Ashoka (also called ‘Devanampriya Priyadarshi’). The wheel in the abacus of the pillar which he erected as a

memorial at Saranath now adorns the national flag of free India.






--- Ashoka

tribuneindia

A rich blend of food, tradition and royalty

CULTURE

From theatre to cinema
Chandigarh, June 2
Gajendra Ahire may not be very well-known in this part of the country, but he is counted among the best filmmakers in Maharashtra. Rooted in regional theatre, Ahire has to his credit significant Marathi plays.

2 plays to be staged by academy
Mohali, June 2
The Punjabi Natak Academy will stage two plays, dedicated to three centenaries associated with Sikh history, in Delhi on June 6. The script of the two plays — “Kudrati Noor Vase Khaddor” and “Jindan Nikian Sake Wade” — has been written by Charan Singh Sindhra.

Making films for multiplexes
Chandigarh, June 2
Sunil Bohra comes from a family which has produced 108 films till date. Himself a producer of “Mard”, “Kalia” and “Takkar”, he is now looking forward to directing Arshad Warsi and Arbaaz Khan in “Jitenge Hum”.

LIFESTYLE

Eating Out A rich blend of food, tradition and royalty Who would be better equipped to offer a meal in the traditional way than the royalty which has taken upon itself the task of preserving the values inculcated in the great Indian culture, the ravayat of our ancestors? Ever since Fort Ramgarh, Panchkula (a few kilometres ahead of Nadha Sahib Gurdwara), threw open its huge darwaza to the public last year, it has been striving not to let crass commercialisation overwhelm the ‘saaf and suthra’ path as advocated by revered saints and gurus, said a scion of the family.

Hundreds turn up for Zee TV’s audition
If the response to “Big Break” is anything to go by Channel V Popstars has a strong contender in Zee. Soon after the Zee TV team descended upon GGDSD College in Sector 32 to announce auditions this morning, youngsters began pouring in. One of the participants at Zee TV’s audition rehearses in the waiting room of GGDSD College, Sector 32, while others look on. — Tribune photo by Pankaj Sharma

‘Tulsi’ remains ever popular THE ever popular, “Tulsi”, continues to be the biggest attraction in all the categories. According to a press release issued here, Tulsi is leading in Dabur Anmol Shampoo Star Parivaar Awards. The release adds that “Kashish and Sujal” are leading in the “jodi category” with a very high margin. Last year also it was a clean sweep for Tulsi when she won the favourite patni and bahu awards. Smriti Irani as Tulsi in “Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi”

‘Bull’ crystal launched
Swarovski, a cut crystal brand, has introduced “Bull”, a new numbered limited edition crystal object, of which 10,000 pieces will be produced. This is the fourth limited edition following “Eagle” in 1995, “Peacock” in 1998 and “Wild Horses” in 2001.

HEALTH

Persistent cough can be asthma, says expert
Chandigarh, June 2
Check that persistent cough, it can be asthma. One of the most under-diagnosed and under-treated diseases, asthma can be, in extreme cases, life-threatening, says Dr Sandeep Mehrishi, a pulmologist.

Hoteliers told to maintain hygiene
Panchkula, June 2
Dr Satvir Chaudhary, Civil Surgeon, today asked owners of hotels, restaurants, and eating joints to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in their units to prevent the spread of water-borne diseases like cholera, jaundice, diarrhoea and gastroenteritis.

India Profile

Ancient Indian Culture as Human Culture

India is an ancient society but a modern State. The Indian ethos has largely been a tolerant society embracing and respecting the dignity of its friends and foes alike. Because Indian culture was more receptive in respecting the inherent worth of others, it had the tendency to overlook the so called alien aspects and build a society based on the principles of cooperation rather than competition.

People from far and wide were attracted to India, whether it was the quest for material El Dorado or spiritual solace. India has always welcomed and accommodated people from alien societies. The very fact that Indian culture could withstand and flourish amidst foreign ideologies both social and religious, speaks volumes for its eclecticism. In a way Indian culture has emphasized some of the fundamental principles of modern day philosophy of human rights from alien societies. The very fact that Indian culture could withstand and flourish amidst foreign ideologies both social and religious, speaks volumes for its eclecticism. In a way Indian culture has emphasized some of the fundamental principles of modern day philosophy of human rights from time past which may be evidenced in a declaration made in he Rig Veda:

O one is superior or inferior. All are brother. All should strive for the interest all and should progress collectively.

Mandala 5, Sukta 60, Mantra 5.

Akin to this is the concept of human rights associated with the worth and dignity of the individual, according highest respect to human personality without any discrimination on grounds of caste, religion, creed, race, colour, sex or place of birth.

Undoubtedly, such a respect for inherent human attribute cultivated an atmosphere conducive to the development and nurturing of a society for all.

The ancient Indian social system was based on the principles of division of labour strictly relying on the aptitude and functional specialization of a person. This heavily corresponds to the Greek theory of Ideal State as portrayed by Plato in his work, The Republic. Plato has categorized society into three classes-Gold, Silver and Copper. Similarly, the Varna Vyavastha (caste system), initially based on innate nature(guna) and individual’s choice of work (shrama), was divided into four classes-Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya and Shudra. However, the difference lies in the fact that Indian thinkers could translate their idea into practice whereas in Greek culture it remained only as a doctrine.

Human lfie was defined in terms of human dignity. And ultimate individual development depended solely upon theuplife and enrichment of humanity a whole. The Sutra (principles) of Athar Veda proclaim:

Tourist places to visit in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh Travel Guide & Tourist Spots Travel India guide provides you with detailed information on Andhra Pradesh, India's fifth largest state, which is sprawled over an area of 275,068 sq. km. History has forged, and left behind vital links with the state, as is evident from the many edifices, monuments and architectural ruins, the legacy of dynasties as old as 300 B.C. Traces of the diverse and variegated facets. On the food front, Andhra pradesh's Hyderabadi Biryani is famous the world over. Click for road map of Andhra Pradesh and also to calculate the shortest route to your destination! Tourist places to visit in Andhra Pradesh Architecture: Architecture in Andhra Pradesh ranges from prehistoric cairns to Buddhist Setups; Hindu and Jain temples of great importance to imposing churches, secular monuments such as the Charming of Hyderabad to some some of the most beautiful mosques and Islamic tombs of India. Cities of Andhra Pradesh have interesting examples of European architecture as well as domestic vernacular architecture. Art & Crafts: Andhra Pradesh has given the world a number of forms of performing arts, handlooms and curios. The world famous Kuchipudi classical dance was born in the state. Kalamkari, the art of dyeing with vegetable oils and colors, still flourishes and silk sarees woven in the state rank among the most beautiful in the world. The handicrafts occupy s special place and possess a timeless charm. Monuments: Bhongir Fort, Chandragiri Fort, Asman Garh Palace - Hyderabad, Charminar - Hyderabad, Golconda Fort - Hyderabad, Falaknuma Palace - Hyderabad, Legislative Assembly - Hyderabad, Osmania University, Purani Haveli - Hyderabad, Paigah Tombs. Wildlife: Alisagar Deer Park Nizamabad, Coringa Wild Life Sanctuary Coringa, Eturnagaram Sanctuary, Gundla Brahmeswara Sanctuary Nandyal, Indira Gandhi Zoological park Visakhapatnam, Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary Palamaneru Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary Jannaram, Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary, Kolleru Lake Bird Sanctuary, Mahaveer Harina Vanasthali National Park Hyderabad, Manjira Wildlife & Bird Sanctuary Sangareddy, Mrigavani National Park Chilkur, Nehru Zoological Park Hyderabad. Pilgrim Centres: Birla Mandir Hyderabad, Mecca Masjid Hyderabad, Mukteshwara Swamy Temple, Kaleshwaram Anumasamudram Peta(Rahamatabad) Nellore, Dichpalli Temple Nizamabad, Neelakanteshwara Temple Nizamabad, Prasanthinilayam Puttaparti, Sri Agastheswara Swamy Temple Tirupati, Swami Pushkarini Tirupati, The Govindarajaswami Temple Tirupati Caves: Belum Caves, Undavalli Caves, Yaganti Caves, Borra Caves, Kirinrandal Guthikonda Caves, Guthikonda Mogalarajapuram Caves,Vijayawada Detailed guide on the best Spa, Yoga & Ayurveda Resorts in India . Find out the best travel deals and holiday packages

India: Culture & Traditions

India: Culture & Traditions Culture is a term that defines the growth and development of a human being by the influence of the social and political situation. Indian culture is a blend of various cultures across the world, at different points in history and also its own rich traditions. Though development and modernity has set in. the people of India remain rooted in their strong and rich heritage. The culture of India is made rich and diverse by several migrations and invasions from the 5000 year old history. It has an immense physical, religious, racial and linguistic variety. Indian culture is defined by the ideas, thoughts and philosophies prevalent in the country and its people. The uniqueness of Indian culture lies in its strong social system and family values. The elders are considered the driving force and so are respected and loved. The guests are considered as gods and are treated with respect and love, even if by foregoing some of the personal pleasures. Indians are always ready to help one another in times of need. The philosophy of distributing joy and sharing sorrows is also an important part of Indian culture. Such unity in diversity can be seen here which teaches tolerance and respect for others. The mildness and humaneness of Indian culture can be seen in all aspect of life. India has people from all religions and walks of life living together in harmony. India being the birth place of many religions like Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, there is freedom to worship and practice any religion throughout the country. In times of calamity as well as celebrations, all religions come together and share the feelings of one another. Indian religions, festivals, rituals, artifacts, monuments, costumes, music and dance, language and literature form an inseparable part of its culture. The diversity can also be seen in the variety of languages spoken here – around 1000, including the regional dialects). The constitution of India recognizes Hindi and English as the two official language used for the Union Government. India is the most diverse and secular country with people from all religious backgrounds following their beliefs and teachings. Having such a diverse and varied population, India is a country of festivals and occasions. The festivals of all religions are celebrated throughout the nation bringing everyone closer. The three national holidays – Independence Day, Republic Day and Gandhi Jayanthi are celebrated nation wide. Apart from that there are different other religious festivals observed across India. Then there are some local or region specific festivals celebrated by the people of that particular region. Another notable aspect of Indian culture is the importance of cuisines in the life of people. The main ingredient is the various spices and herbs. Each region has its own mix of spices and elaborate cooking method to make an assortment of dishes. Food has an important role in bringing the family together. It is a time when all members of the family sit and share their daily experiences. Culture is not only about the art, architecture and literature but it is a part of the people right from the childhood. The culture of a country is shaped by the people and their upbringing- what ideas and thoughts have been put into their development. Indian culture is formed by blending the various influences from the neighbors and invaders as well as by preserving its ancient heritage. Map of India See what India has to offer by visiting the differnt states of India.

Andhra Pradesh Travel Guide & Tourist Spots

Travel India guide provides you with detailed information on Andhra Pradesh, India's fifth largest state, which is sprawled over an area of 275,068 sq. km. History has forged, and left behind vital links with the state, as is evident from the many edifices, monuments and architectural ruins, the legacy of dynasties as old as 300 B.C. Traces of the diverse and variegated facets. On the food front, Andhra pradesh's Hyderabadi Biryani is famous the world over.

Click for road map of Andhra Pradesh and also to calculate the shortest route to your destination!