BEAUTIES OF INDIA
BEAUTIES OF INDIA
SANDIPAN K GOSWAMI
India has a multitude of natural diversity owing to its unique geographical location. India
is probably the only country in the world having such a wide array of seasons. There is
abundant rainfall, chilling winters and scorching summers. All of them pioneer the beauty
of India. Our country stands for beauty, diversity and unity. Every part, every region,
indeed, every nook and corner of this country has something wonderful to add to the
cumulative beauty. The Almighty has truly showered us with his choicest blessings with
respect to natural beauty and offered a plethora of natural resources.
1. Sikkim – Located in the North Eastern part of India, Sikkim was the last state to
join the Indian union. Nestled between Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan, Sikkim is a melting
pot of cultures. However, the natural beauty of the state is what truly makes it a
must-visit destination in India. It’s a small mountainous state and the base camp
of Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world, is on Sikkim’s North Eastern
border.
2. Kerala- It’s not without reason that Kerala is known as God’s own country – one
visit to the state and you will come back completely rejuvenated! There is much to
explore here but for me it’s the natural beauty that tops it all. Visit Kerala to explore
the pristine beaches, wondrous backwaters and hills of Munnar. It’s the
backwaters that are most unique here – and there are many places where one can
explore them, including popular Alleppey.
3. Meghalaya- Tucked far away in the remote North East, the state of Meghalaya has
remained relatively unexplored by travellers. Its name translates into ‘abode in the
clouds’ and was famously referred to as the ‘Scotland of the East’ by the British.
Being the wettest region of the country, the ecosystem here is unique. From the
living bridges which are formed by branches and roots of trees, to the natural
caves and some of the highest and most beautiful waterfalls, Meghalaya is truly a
delight for anyone who loves to become at one with nature.
When it comes to historic monuments, the name of India must be included. India is filled
with historic monuments. Hampi, Mahabalipuram, Jaisalmeir and many more. So let’s
see the beautiful historic monuments of India.
1. Mahabalipuram
The story of Mahabalipuram begins in the 7th century during the reign of the
mighty Pallavas, who ruled from Kanchi near Chennai. Mahabalipuram was
already a well-known port and was written about in the Greek empire. The
present-day name itself is derived from Mamallapuram, of the city of Mamalla.
Today, Mahabalipuram is one of the most important places to learn about the
evolution of Hindu temple architecture. Some of the most well-known temples to
explore here include the iconic Pancha Ratha and the impressive rock carving –
Arjuna’s Penance / Descent of the Ganges – which features a moving scene from
Mahabharata.
2. Hampi
Located in the southern state of Karnataka, the group of monuments now form a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a popular destination to explore the history
dating back to the 14th century. One must visit Virupaksha temple, a perfect place
to start the day with the morning prayers at dawn. The stone chariot at Vittala
temple truly exemplifies the grandeur and prosperity of this city, as it existed
centuries ago and is a sight of wonder.
3. Lucknow
Lucknow is a city deeply steeped in history and a stroll through the old quarters
reveals secrets that surprise even local residents. Also known as the city of
Nawabs, Lucknow was built by noblemen who were originally meant to manage
the region under the Mughals, but eventually became kings themselves.
4. Delhi
Delhi has traditionally been a major city in India. From the early Hindu kings to the
Sultans and Mughal Emperors then finally the British, the city has grown and
flourished under each dynasty. Each of these eras introduced something new to
the city, yet the original flavour of the city has remained unchanged. Rich in history,
it can take days or even weeks before one gets to grips with how much Delhi has
to offer. A walk through the lanes will take you to Jama Masjid which stands tall
among the rather flat houses in the area. Apart from the mosques and forts, Delhi
is also well known for some beautiful tombs. A visit to Humayun’s Tomb and
Safdarjung’s Tomb is a must. Also head over to Mehrauli Archaeological park and
pay a visit to the iconic Qutub Minar.
5. Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort is one of the world’s largest fully preserved forts. Built in 1156 AD
by Rawal Jaisal, the fort derives its name from two words – Jaisal and Meru. Jaisal
came from the king himself and Meru is the name of an unassailable mythical
mountain of the Gods in the Himalayas. Before the British came, Jaisalmer was
part of the Silk Route and an important stop for travellers and merchants passing
through. Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with all the other
hill forts of Rajasthan. It’s also known as the Golden Fort because of its yellow
colour that glows like gold in the morning and evening. Some other spots to
explore in Jaisalmer include historical forts across the desert, Patwon ki haveli and
Gadisar Lake.
The festivals celebrated in India must also be included in the beauties of India. Being a
diverse country, every religion celebrates its festival with full joy and makes every year of
their festival memorable.
1. Navratri
When it comes to Indian festivals, there is nothing quite like Navratri. Navratri
literally translates into nine nights and is celebrated in different parts of the
country. It’s the time of year when the nights are alive with devi music, a special
dance called garba and other fun festivities for all. The purpose of the festival is to
show devotion to the Shakti goddess, and the festivities at night are dedicated
entirely to her. In Gujarat, Navratri is a festival of many colours with special clothes
made especially for the nine days, with special dances performed during the
festival and some delicious navratri food.
2. Dussehra and Durga Puja
Following on from the nine days of continuous festivities, the tenth day is the big
festival of Dussehra, celebrated throughout the country in a variety of ways.
However, the overall theme remains the same – victory of good over evil. Though
it’s celebrated with much enthusiasm across the country, it’s the Dussehra
celebration in the south Indian city of Mysore that truly stands out. Just like in the
south, in the Eastern state of West Bengal, the festival simply has no match. In
cities, towns and villages people pray at home, but also come together as a
community and pray together as well – it’s truly a sight to behold.
3. Diwali
Diwali is celebrated across India as the homecoming of the Hindu God Rama after
the victory over Ravana in Lanka on the Dussehra day. It was a battle that lasted
for nine days. He took exactly 20 days to reach his kingdom, and so Diwali also
takes place exactly after Dussehra. Diwali is a more family-oriented and intimate
festival with prayers and festivities taking place within a family or in smaller
communities. No matter where in the world you are, this is one day where you
make a trip back home to be with your family. Diwali is known as the ‘festival of
lights’ because we light up our homes with lamps and candles – a welcoming
gesture to the gods. On this day we also celebrate goddess Lakshmi and Ganesha
to bring wealth and prosperity to our homes.
4. Holi
When it comes to festivals, there is nothing quite like Holi in India! Also known as
the festival of colours, Holi is a festival where the entire city spills out on the
streets and celebrates the day together as one. One of the best ways to experience
Holi is at the twin cities of Mathura-Vrindavan. What’s even more special in this
region is that Holi is not just celebrated on one day, but throughout many weeks
leading up to the big day – with a new village participating each week. Some of
these festivals are played with dry colours, while others with wet ones and some
even with just flowers.
5. Bihu
Celebrated primarily in the North Eastern state of Assam. Bihu is celebrated three
times throughout the year. The most significant of these is the harvest festival,
Rongali Bihu, also closely linked with the famous Bihu dance. Bihu marks the first
day of the Hindu calendar, and is celebrated in many other parts of the country
with different names and customs. The festival in Assam is celebrated over a
period of seven days – each day with special significance and unique rituals. The
festival is especially significant in the rural parts of the state and if one wants to
experience it fully, a visit to the villages of Assam is a must.
As a citizen of India, I am proud to talk about it — India’s outstanding diversity of religions,
languages and cultures is unique and unmatched. It has beautiful green crops that fill our
land with greenery. It also has many rivers flowing through fertile soil, a variety of flowers,
plants and animals. The Himalayas decorates India like a majestic crown. India has
always been one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. Not only
Hindu mythology but the Tibetan and Chinese folktales also believe that the Himalayas
are the abodes of the divine. The southern parts of India have architectural and structural
heritage boasting of the immaculate workmanship of Indian artisans. These are just
some examples of how vibrant and brilliant India is.
SANDIPAN K GOSWAMI
Class: VIII, South Point School
