JAIPUR: Salman Khan-starrer Veer continues to court controversy in the state. After being delayed due to the hullabaloo created during its shooting at Amber Fort and later in Bikaner, the movie on Saturday faced the ire of Karni Sena in Jaipur, leading to a lathi charge and damages to the multiplexes.
A week after the movie’s release, Karni Sena woke up to stage a protest alleging that a few scenes in the movie were hurting the sentiments of the Rajput community.
Supporters of Karni Sena created ruckus at a multiplex and a mall in Vaishali Nagar and Jhotwara on Saturday. They smashed window panes and flowerpots at both the places while shouting slogans against Salman. The police resorted to lathicharge to disperse the crowd and arrested 22 demonstrators.
Though Karni Sena supporters had issued a warning on Friday, many unaware movie goers and shoppers were left stranded following the demonstrations.
According to the police, over 200 people gathered at INOX multiplex in Vaishali Nagar and another 150 at Triton Mall in Jhotwara and started shouting slogans.
“At both the places, the police had to resort to mild lathicharge as the crowd damaged property. They broke glass doors and smashed some flowerpots on the ground,” said a senior police officer. Twenty-two demonstrators were arrested under Section 151 of the IPC. They were later remanded to judicial custody.
“The scenes in the movie depicted the community as a bunch of cowards, something which is not acceptable to us,” said Ajit Singh, state president, Karni Sena.
The Karni Sena has raised objections on three scenes in the movie which they feel show the community in a bad light: The Rajtilak of a Rajput princess despite her father being alive; Salman’s dialogue where he claims Rajputs as traitors and a Rajput prince backing out of a challenge.
“All these things are against the Rajput character and malign the image of our brave community,” said Ajit. This is a claim that the director of the movie Anil Sharma refutes, “We have not shown anything that could hurt the sentiments of the Rajput community,” says Sharma. He further adds, “The Pindaris were a part of the Rajput community and those who are creating the ruckus should first go and watch the movie and also read history.” Sharma said that he doesn’t plan to cut any scenes and will think about out if the local distributors ask.
Earlier, movies with Rajput subjects like Jodhaa Akbar, Gulaal and Zubeida ahd also faced wrath of Rajput protestors. Commenting on the violence Singh said that the violence was not intented and its sad that such things happened.
“We had urged the administration to stop screening and had planned a peaceful protest. However, at a few places there were scuffle between the protestors and the cops. This should not have happened,” he said.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Arrests fail to deter vehicle thieves
JAIPUR: Recent arrests of vehicle lifters by the police seem to have failed to check such thefts in the city. In a daring act, four men who had stolen a Bolero hit a police car during the chase and fired in the air to threaten them late on Friday night. One of the lifters was arrested while others fled.
In yet another incident, some vehicle lifters threatened cops with a pistol who tried to nab them in Muralipura area. They first stole a Maruti car from the area and then broke into the house of a trader in Karni Vihar. But as the family woke up while they were committing the burglary, the thieves had to flee. The police have not yet been able to nab them.
According to the police, four men had stolen a Bolero car which was spotted at a check post in the Muhana area by policemen. As the registration plate was missing, the cops tried to intercept it but the car sped away. After that cops of five police stations, including Pratap Nagar, Sanganer, Sanganer Sadar and Shivdaspura, gave chase. Meanwhile, the thieves hit a chasing police jeep and fired in the air.
In Shivdaspura, the road was completely blocked following which the men drove the car in the nearby farms. One of the lifters, a resident of Karauli, was arrested while three others fled. The police are interrogating the arrested man.
In the second incident in the Murlipura area early on Saturday morning, some miscreants stole a Maruti from a house in Kalyan Nagar and drove it to another house in the Chitrakoot area. They tried to steal a car from the house, but the family members were awakened up by security alarm following which they fled in the stolen Maruti car.
The police had recently busted some interstate gangs involved in vehicle stealing from the city. They had hoped that this would reduce the number of vehicle thefts, but it seems that the police will have to put in much more effort to rein in the crime which is currently worrying Jaipurites.
In yet another incident, some vehicle lifters threatened cops with a pistol who tried to nab them in Muralipura area. They first stole a Maruti car from the area and then broke into the house of a trader in Karni Vihar. But as the family woke up while they were committing the burglary, the thieves had to flee. The police have not yet been able to nab them.
According to the police, four men had stolen a Bolero car which was spotted at a check post in the Muhana area by policemen. As the registration plate was missing, the cops tried to intercept it but the car sped away. After that cops of five police stations, including Pratap Nagar, Sanganer, Sanganer Sadar and Shivdaspura, gave chase. Meanwhile, the thieves hit a chasing police jeep and fired in the air.
In Shivdaspura, the road was completely blocked following which the men drove the car in the nearby farms. One of the lifters, a resident of Karauli, was arrested while three others fled. The police are interrogating the arrested man.
In the second incident in the Murlipura area early on Saturday morning, some miscreants stole a Maruti from a house in Kalyan Nagar and drove it to another house in the Chitrakoot area. They tried to steal a car from the house, but the family members were awakened up by security alarm following which they fled in the stolen Maruti car.
The police had recently busted some interstate gangs involved in vehicle stealing from the city. They had hoped that this would reduce the number of vehicle thefts, but it seems that the police will have to put in much more effort to rein in the crime which is currently worrying Jaipurites.
Three-day workshop at MNIT
JAIPUR: It was supposed to be a normal day at the stock exchange. The moment news spread that West Bengal government has rejected the proposal of an IT giant to set up an IT park in the state, “investors” rushed to the brokers and sold their shares anticipating a dip in the market.
This was not real but a scene at the “virtual Dalal Street” set up in the old library on MNIT campus on Saturday. It was a part of their ongoing three-day exercise at the workshop.
The event has attracted more than 264 teams from 60 colleges, including engineering and management, from across the country. This exercise in stock market dealing was a part of an educational event.
There were seven rounds in the whole event. Every round was marked with a set of news that could have possible effect on the stock market.
Surprisingly, engineering students performed at par with the management students.
This was not real but a scene at the “virtual Dalal Street” set up in the old library on MNIT campus on Saturday. It was a part of their ongoing three-day exercise at the workshop.
The event has attracted more than 264 teams from 60 colleges, including engineering and management, from across the country. This exercise in stock market dealing was a part of an educational event.
There were seven rounds in the whole event. Every round was marked with a set of news that could have possible effect on the stock market.
Surprisingly, engineering students performed at par with the management students.
Striking workers in SMS to be dismissed
JAIPUR: Refusing to entertain the demands of contract workers at SMS Medical College, the government has threatened to sack the striking workers. For the fourth consecutive day, nearly 2,000 contract workers in hospitals associated with the medical college resorted to strike, putting patients in difficulty.
“The workforce is hired on contract, now they demand regularisation as their contract has ended. Their demands are unjust and we have already issued new tenders for contract workers,” said principal secretary, health education, C M Meena.
Most of the ward boys and associated service staff at government hospitals are supplied by contractors. As they are not regular hospital employees, the administration does not have to handle a huge workforce.
However, the contract workers have claimed the contractors were exploiting them and have raised several issues with the authorities. It has been decided that salaries will be directly deposited into the bank accounts of the workers. The workers, however, are on strike demanding eradication of the contract system and direct hiring of workers.
“The workforce is hired on contract, now they demand regularisation as their contract has ended. Their demands are unjust and we have already issued new tenders for contract workers,” said principal secretary, health education, C M Meena.
Most of the ward boys and associated service staff at government hospitals are supplied by contractors. As they are not regular hospital employees, the administration does not have to handle a huge workforce.
However, the contract workers have claimed the contractors were exploiting them and have raised several issues with the authorities. It has been decided that salaries will be directly deposited into the bank accounts of the workers. The workers, however, are on strike demanding eradication of the contract system and direct hiring of workers.
Mirdha’s body consigned to flames
JAIPUR: The mortal remains of Congress leader Ram Niwas Mirdha were consigned to flames with full state honours at his native village Kuchera in Nagaur district on Saturday afternoon.
His son Harendra Mirdha and grandsons lit the funeral pyre amid chanting of Vedic mantras and slogans of “Ram Niwas amar rahe”.
Family members, friends and a number of political leaders, including chief minister Ashok Gehlot and Union ministers C P Joshi and Mukul Wasnik attended the cremation. Earlier in the day, people from different walks of life visited Mirdha’s residence to pay their last respects to the departed leader.
Mirdha held several portfolios including home, textiles, irrigation, health and family welfare, external affairs and communications as minister of state at the Centre in his long and distinguished career.
A former Speaker of Rajasthan assembly, Mirdha was also deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha from March 1977 to April 1980.
His son Harendra Mirdha and grandsons lit the funeral pyre amid chanting of Vedic mantras and slogans of “Ram Niwas amar rahe”.
Family members, friends and a number of political leaders, including chief minister Ashok Gehlot and Union ministers C P Joshi and Mukul Wasnik attended the cremation. Earlier in the day, people from different walks of life visited Mirdha’s residence to pay their last respects to the departed leader.
Mirdha held several portfolios including home, textiles, irrigation, health and family welfare, external affairs and communications as minister of state at the Centre in his long and distinguished career.
A former Speaker of Rajasthan assembly, Mirdha was also deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha from March 1977 to April 1980.
Final touches to petition to be filed in SC
JAIPUR: The legal cell of the state government has worked out the modalities of the special leave petition, which it is planning to file in the Supreme Court, against the Rajasthan High Court order quashing the Mathur Commission.
The high court in its order on January 4 had termed the constitution of Mathur Commission as illegal and suggested that the allegations of corruption against the Vasundhara Raje government be handed over to the state Lokayukta.
According to sources, the department of personnel has requested solicitor general Gopal Subramaniam to argue the special leave petition to be filed by the state government. The appeal has been drafted on three major grounds which include the contention that Lokayukta does not have the authority to inquire into charges of corruption.
The government counsels are preparing to argue that the Lokayukta has no authority and jurisdiction to inquire into the illegalities committed by a chief minister and MLA — both present and former — and as such, the transfer of investigation to Lokayukta will yield no results. Another contention is that by ordering the investigations to be transferred to Lokayukta, the high court has deliberately interfered in the functioning of the government and the court cannot be permitted to ask the government to choose among the options available to conduct an inquiry.
The government also plans to apprise the Supreme Court that in order to run a clean administration, it has the authority to constitute a fact-finding committee which is within the jurisdiction of the government. Hence the order constituting the Justice N N Mathur commission was right though the same was not a full-fledged commission under the Commission of Inquiries Act, 1952.
It is noteworthy that the Congress had made a huge hue and cry at the last assembly elections in 2008, stating that the BJP government under Vasundhara Raje was involved in all sorts of corrupt dealings of which land allotments were the most serious ones. Congress had promised during the elections that if voted to power, it will make a thorough inquiry into the alleged Rs 22,000 crore corruption charges against Raje and others.
Meanwhile, counsel for the petitioners in the high court, Abhinav Sharma said: “I have already filed a caveat in the Supreme Court on behalf of the petitioners and the Supreme Court will have to hear us as and when the matter is taken up. We are ready to give the government a strong contest as all the grounds for appeal are flimsical. Further, all the three grounds are juxtaposed to their pleadings in the high court.” Kashi Purohit and KML Asthana were the petitioners who had questioned the functioning of the Mathur Commission against which the Rajasthan High Court had passed the order.
The high court in its order on January 4 had termed the constitution of Mathur Commission as illegal and suggested that the allegations of corruption against the Vasundhara Raje government be handed over to the state Lokayukta.
According to sources, the department of personnel has requested solicitor general Gopal Subramaniam to argue the special leave petition to be filed by the state government. The appeal has been drafted on three major grounds which include the contention that Lokayukta does not have the authority to inquire into charges of corruption.
The government counsels are preparing to argue that the Lokayukta has no authority and jurisdiction to inquire into the illegalities committed by a chief minister and MLA — both present and former — and as such, the transfer of investigation to Lokayukta will yield no results. Another contention is that by ordering the investigations to be transferred to Lokayukta, the high court has deliberately interfered in the functioning of the government and the court cannot be permitted to ask the government to choose among the options available to conduct an inquiry.
The government also plans to apprise the Supreme Court that in order to run a clean administration, it has the authority to constitute a fact-finding committee which is within the jurisdiction of the government. Hence the order constituting the Justice N N Mathur commission was right though the same was not a full-fledged commission under the Commission of Inquiries Act, 1952.
It is noteworthy that the Congress had made a huge hue and cry at the last assembly elections in 2008, stating that the BJP government under Vasundhara Raje was involved in all sorts of corrupt dealings of which land allotments were the most serious ones. Congress had promised during the elections that if voted to power, it will make a thorough inquiry into the alleged Rs 22,000 crore corruption charges against Raje and others.
Meanwhile, counsel for the petitioners in the high court, Abhinav Sharma said: “I have already filed a caveat in the Supreme Court on behalf of the petitioners and the Supreme Court will have to hear us as and when the matter is taken up. We are ready to give the government a strong contest as all the grounds for appeal are flimsical. Further, all the three grounds are juxtaposed to their pleadings in the high court.” Kashi Purohit and KML Asthana were the petitioners who had questioned the functioning of the Mathur Commission against which the Rajasthan High Court had passed the order.
Andy's wait for justice drags on
JAIPUR: Ajmer police on Friday took another extension in filing the chargesheet against green traveller Andy Pag who was arrested on January 11 in Pushkar for carrying a satellite phone. The Pushkar court has extended the date of hearing to February 10.
The cops had failed to file the chargesheet on January 23, the first date of hearing after Pag was granted bail by the Ajmer district court on January 18.
With his 60-day tourist visa expiring on February 22, the wait for justice is getting long for Pag. Even if the trial starts on February 10, there's a slim chance that it will end by February 22. After which he can't stay legally in the country and once he steps out of the country, as per the new visa regulations, he can't come back before 60 days without special permission. Pag entered India through the Wagah border on December 23, 2009.
"I am a little disappointed to hear that the chargesheet has not yet been filed," Pag said. According to the visa papers he signed before entering India, the tourist visa cannot normally be extended. However, there are provisions for visa extension, but the process is cumbersome.
There is a provision by which an extension of 15 days may be granted on any type of visa (including tourist visa), under emergency circumstances, with applicable visa fee, and subject to certain conditions, like production of confirmed onward journey ticket.
Pag is planning to write to the embassy to help him out in this situation. Embassy officials shared that they will write to the minister of home affairs to look into the matter of visa extension. His counsel is exploring possibilities of securing an extension. "There is a process in place but it all depends, it is difficult to state at this point in time," his advocate Prateek Kasliwal said.
Police usually get 90 days to file the chargesheet, but an urgency shown on their part could have speeded up the process. Additional SP, Ajmer Rural, Himmat Abhilash Tak, pleaded ignorance about the day's development, saying he was in Jaipur for some work in the high court but sources said the cops are waiting for the panchayt elections to get over before filing the chargesheet.
Meanwhile, on January 27 Pag on his part managed to get email correspondence from Thuraya confirming that no call had been made or received from his phone during the time he was in India and Pakistan and faxed the same to police in Pushkar. Pag was keeping the Thuraya-made satphone.
"This corroborates the facts I gave to police during my interrogations, confirming that I have been honest, open and truthful with investigators. It removes the last shadow of doubt that I am a threat to national security, and that I should be charged with laws designed to punish terrorists," Pag said.
Meanwhile, he plans to carry on with his biofuel expedition to ensure that he covers the distance he set out for before it gets too late. "Though it is tough to concentrate on the expedition right now, I am planning to head towards Mumbai and cover the maximum distance in whatever time is left with me," he added.
The cops had failed to file the chargesheet on January 23, the first date of hearing after Pag was granted bail by the Ajmer district court on January 18.
With his 60-day tourist visa expiring on February 22, the wait for justice is getting long for Pag. Even if the trial starts on February 10, there's a slim chance that it will end by February 22. After which he can't stay legally in the country and once he steps out of the country, as per the new visa regulations, he can't come back before 60 days without special permission. Pag entered India through the Wagah border on December 23, 2009.
"I am a little disappointed to hear that the chargesheet has not yet been filed," Pag said. According to the visa papers he signed before entering India, the tourist visa cannot normally be extended. However, there are provisions for visa extension, but the process is cumbersome.
There is a provision by which an extension of 15 days may be granted on any type of visa (including tourist visa), under emergency circumstances, with applicable visa fee, and subject to certain conditions, like production of confirmed onward journey ticket.
Pag is planning to write to the embassy to help him out in this situation. Embassy officials shared that they will write to the minister of home affairs to look into the matter of visa extension. His counsel is exploring possibilities of securing an extension. "There is a process in place but it all depends, it is difficult to state at this point in time," his advocate Prateek Kasliwal said.
Police usually get 90 days to file the chargesheet, but an urgency shown on their part could have speeded up the process. Additional SP, Ajmer Rural, Himmat Abhilash Tak, pleaded ignorance about the day's development, saying he was in Jaipur for some work in the high court but sources said the cops are waiting for the panchayt elections to get over before filing the chargesheet.
Meanwhile, on January 27 Pag on his part managed to get email correspondence from Thuraya confirming that no call had been made or received from his phone during the time he was in India and Pakistan and faxed the same to police in Pushkar. Pag was keeping the Thuraya-made satphone.
"This corroborates the facts I gave to police during my interrogations, confirming that I have been honest, open and truthful with investigators. It removes the last shadow of doubt that I am a threat to national security, and that I should be charged with laws designed to punish terrorists," Pag said.
Meanwhile, he plans to carry on with his biofuel expedition to ensure that he covers the distance he set out for before it gets too late. "Though it is tough to concentrate on the expedition right now, I am planning to head towards Mumbai and cover the maximum distance in whatever time is left with me," he added.
Veteran Jat leader Ram Niwas Mirdha dead
JAIPUR: Jat veteran and one of the top Congress leaders in Rajasthan, Ram Niwas Mirdha (87), passed away on Friday following multiple organ failure
in Delhi. He is survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter. His eldest son Rajendra Mirdha, had passed away the same day last year. His granddaughter Jyoti Mirdha is the present MP from Nagaur Lok Sabha seat.
He was born in Kuchera village in Nagaur district on August 24, 1924. The last rites would be performed at Kuchera on Saturday with full state honours. The state has announced a day of mourning.
He had held key ministerial portfolios, including external affairs and communications. He was the chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee, which went into the multi-crore securities scam in the early nineties. He was also deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha from March 1977 to April 1980. During former Prime Minister Indra Gandhi's tenure, he was MoS in home, personnel and administrative reforms.
Mirdha was admitted to the hospital on January 21 after he was diagnosed with kidney infection. "He passed away around 12:45 pm following multiple organ failure,'' Dr D S Rana, consultant, department of nephrology of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, said.
Governor Prabha Rau, chief minister Ashok Gehlot, assembly speaker Deependra Singh Shekhawat and BJP leader Vasundhara Raje condoled Mirdha's death.
Mirdha was one of the politicians who opted to be in public life rather than serve as a bureaucrat. In 1953 he quit his job as an officer of Rajasthan Adminstrative Service to contest a by-election from Jayal in his home Nagaur districts.
Mirdha was educated in Jodhpur and did his post graduation from Allahbad University and law from Lucknow University. He then went to study international affairs in Geneva.
When he was serving as the secretary of Nathu Ram another senior Jat leader Ram Niwas was known for writing letters and conversing in fluent English, for which his community regarded him as a "padha likha Jat'' (educated Jat). Known for his pleasing manners, he was groomed in politics by his uncle Nathu Ram who helped him in getting Congress nomination in the by-election in Jayal.
Ram Niwas clashed with his mentor and guru Nathu Ram in the 1984 Lok sabha election from Nagaur and defeated him. It was an embarrassment for the nephew. After this election, their relationship soured. When Nathu Ram Mirdha died and a by-election followed in Nagaur, Nathu Ram's son Bhanu Prakash defeated Ram Niwas largely because the people of Nagaur wanted to pay their tribute to Nathu Ram a towering leader.
He was elected to the Rajasthan assembly thrice and was the speaker of the Assembly from 1957 to 1967. Mirdha enjoyed a good and clean image, which helped him become the chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee that probed securities scam in the '90s.
in Delhi. He is survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter. His eldest son Rajendra Mirdha, had passed away the same day last year. His granddaughter Jyoti Mirdha is the present MP from Nagaur Lok Sabha seat.
He was born in Kuchera village in Nagaur district on August 24, 1924. The last rites would be performed at Kuchera on Saturday with full state honours. The state has announced a day of mourning.
He had held key ministerial portfolios, including external affairs and communications. He was the chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee, which went into the multi-crore securities scam in the early nineties. He was also deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha from March 1977 to April 1980. During former Prime Minister Indra Gandhi's tenure, he was MoS in home, personnel and administrative reforms.
Mirdha was admitted to the hospital on January 21 after he was diagnosed with kidney infection. "He passed away around 12:45 pm following multiple organ failure,'' Dr D S Rana, consultant, department of nephrology of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, said.
Governor Prabha Rau, chief minister Ashok Gehlot, assembly speaker Deependra Singh Shekhawat and BJP leader Vasundhara Raje condoled Mirdha's death.
Mirdha was one of the politicians who opted to be in public life rather than serve as a bureaucrat. In 1953 he quit his job as an officer of Rajasthan Adminstrative Service to contest a by-election from Jayal in his home Nagaur districts.
Mirdha was educated in Jodhpur and did his post graduation from Allahbad University and law from Lucknow University. He then went to study international affairs in Geneva.
When he was serving as the secretary of Nathu Ram another senior Jat leader Ram Niwas was known for writing letters and conversing in fluent English, for which his community regarded him as a "padha likha Jat'' (educated Jat). Known for his pleasing manners, he was groomed in politics by his uncle Nathu Ram who helped him in getting Congress nomination in the by-election in Jayal.
Ram Niwas clashed with his mentor and guru Nathu Ram in the 1984 Lok sabha election from Nagaur and defeated him. It was an embarrassment for the nephew. After this election, their relationship soured. When Nathu Ram Mirdha died and a by-election followed in Nagaur, Nathu Ram's son Bhanu Prakash defeated Ram Niwas largely because the people of Nagaur wanted to pay their tribute to Nathu Ram a towering leader.
He was elected to the Rajasthan assembly thrice and was the speaker of the Assembly from 1957 to 1967. Mirdha enjoyed a good and clean image, which helped him become the chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee that probed securities scam in the '90s.
Body of 4-yr-old taken out of borewell
JAIPUR: All efforts to save the life of four-year-old Pankaj, who fell into a 250-feet-deep borewell in Piploond village under Jahazpur police
station of Bhilwara district, failed as his body was recovered on Friday. The medical team trying to rescue him claimed that Pankaj died due to severe head injury.
According to reports, Pankaj slipped into the borewell on Thursday afternoon while he was playing in the nearby field. The district administration swung into action and immediately launched a rescue operation. Earthmovers and oxygen cylinder were rushed to the spot. CCTV cameras were also installed to keep an eye on each and every movement of the victim.
Jahazpur SHO Amardeep Singh said oxygen was being supplied continuously. As the rescue team faced difficulty in digging the tunnel parallel to the well with the land being stony, stone-cutting equipment were pressed into service. The operation continued throughout the night and the teams were successful in taking him out but unfortunately his life could not be saved, he said.
station of Bhilwara district, failed as his body was recovered on Friday. The medical team trying to rescue him claimed that Pankaj died due to severe head injury.
According to reports, Pankaj slipped into the borewell on Thursday afternoon while he was playing in the nearby field. The district administration swung into action and immediately launched a rescue operation. Earthmovers and oxygen cylinder were rushed to the spot. CCTV cameras were also installed to keep an eye on each and every movement of the victim.
Jahazpur SHO Amardeep Singh said oxygen was being supplied continuously. As the rescue team faced difficulty in digging the tunnel parallel to the well with the land being stony, stone-cutting equipment were pressed into service. The operation continued throughout the night and the teams were successful in taking him out but unfortunately his life could not be saved, he said.
Rajputs protest against 'Veer' in Jaipur, 22 held
JAIPUR: Over 100 members of a local outfit today damaged vehicles and property at a cinema hall here to protest alleged "misrepresentation" of
Rajputs in Salman Khan- starrer 'Veer', after which 22 of them were arrested.
"The protestors damaged a few vehicles and the glass door of a cinema hall in Jhotwara area in the morning hours. After that they reached another cinema hall in Vaishali Nagar where police controlled them and arrested some of them," Superintendent of Police, Jaipur South, Jose Mohan said.
He said 22 activists, including their leader, have been arrested and the situation is now under control.
A representative of the Sree Rajpur Karni Sena, which staged the protest, said several scenes and dialogues in the movie, directed by Anil Sharma of the 'Gadar' fame, are "anti-Rajput" and they demand their removal.
"The Rajputs have been represented in a wrong way. Either these parts should be removed or the screening of the movie stopped altogether," he demanded.
The protest was staged at around 11.30 am, just before the show was to start, sources said.
The members of the outfit yesterday submitted a memorandum to the District Collector demanding a ban on screening of the film.
"A delegation met me yesterday and submitted their representation citing the ground of misrepresentation of the Rajput caste," Collector Kuldeep Ranka said.
Veer is already in trouble after an author filed a lawsuit in the Delhi High Court seeking a stay on its screening, alleging that it has illegally lifted some concepts from his book.
Rajputs in Salman Khan- starrer 'Veer', after which 22 of them were arrested.
"The protestors damaged a few vehicles and the glass door of a cinema hall in Jhotwara area in the morning hours. After that they reached another cinema hall in Vaishali Nagar where police controlled them and arrested some of them," Superintendent of Police, Jaipur South, Jose Mohan said.
He said 22 activists, including their leader, have been arrested and the situation is now under control.
A representative of the Sree Rajpur Karni Sena, which staged the protest, said several scenes and dialogues in the movie, directed by Anil Sharma of the 'Gadar' fame, are "anti-Rajput" and they demand their removal.
"The Rajputs have been represented in a wrong way. Either these parts should be removed or the screening of the movie stopped altogether," he demanded.
The protest was staged at around 11.30 am, just before the show was to start, sources said.
The members of the outfit yesterday submitted a memorandum to the District Collector demanding a ban on screening of the film.
"A delegation met me yesterday and submitted their representation citing the ground of misrepresentation of the Rajput caste," Collector Kuldeep Ranka said.
Veer is already in trouble after an author filed a lawsuit in the Delhi High Court seeking a stay on its screening, alleging that it has illegally lifted some concepts from his book.
Jhotwara tense after communal remarks written on temple wall
JAIPUR: Tension prevailed in Jhotwara area of the city on Friday when a man wrote communal remarks on the wall of a temple in Shakti Nagar. When
angry residents gathered in front of his house, he threatened the crowd with knife. Police said that the man is mentally disturbed.
"The man, Amit Sindhi, had painted some remarks on the wall of the Ganesh temple situated in front of his house," said a police officer. When the neighbours objected to it, he threatened them with a knife. A huge crowd then gathered there and was about to thrash. The police rushed to the spot and took him into custody.
"The man seems to be mentally retarded. He has painted communal remarks even on the photos pasted on the walls of his house," said the officer. Additional security arrangements have been made in the area to maintain law and order, he added.
angry residents gathered in front of his house, he threatened the crowd with knife. Police said that the man is mentally disturbed.
"The man, Amit Sindhi, had painted some remarks on the wall of the Ganesh temple situated in front of his house," said a police officer. When the neighbours objected to it, he threatened them with a knife. A huge crowd then gathered there and was about to thrash. The police rushed to the spot and took him into custody.
"The man seems to be mentally retarded. He has painted communal remarks even on the photos pasted on the walls of his house," said the officer. Additional security arrangements have been made in the area to maintain law and order, he added.
Jaipur literature festival: Simply the very best
One of the consequences of being an author is that one gets rather a lot of invitations . Some of these are eminently resistible, but then there are More Pictures those invitations that cannot be turned down. So when a summons to Jaipur was received, it had to be obeyed on two grounds. Firstly, it was Jaipur; and secondly, it came from no less a person than William Dalrymple. One does not turn down Mr Dalrymple. So I readily and happily accepted, and now that the festival has come and gone I am immensely glad that I was there. The Jaipur Literature Festival, now only in its fifth year, is simply one of the very best literary festivals in the world.
And there is quite stiff competition. This year I shall be attending literary festivals in Dubai, Hong Kong, Canada, Britain and Sweden. That sounds a lot, but it is only scratching the surface; in recent years, literary festivals have proliferated to the extent that just about every city of any significance feels that it must have one. As a result, one could, if so minded, easily spend an entire year going from literary festival to literary festival without a break; nobody in his or her right mind would do that, of course.
Literary festivals come in different flavours. At one end of the spectrum are the large trade-fair-type , of which the Frankfurt Book Fair in Germany is the senior member of the family. The Kolkata Book Fair, which I was fortunate enough to attend last year, is in this category. These are fairs where publishers show their wares, both to other publishers and to the general public. The emphasis in these is not so much on talks by authors as on showing and selling books. Kolkata is in a class of its own in terms of public attendance: over two million people cross its threshold each year.
Then there are the festivals that consist of talks and readings by authors; the Jaipur Festival is one of these, and there are a lot of them. Some are residential, with most of the public attending the festival staying at one or two festival hotels. The Galle Literary Festival in Sri Lanka is of this type. It is a paradise for the book-lover , with the holding of a series of intimate lunches at which visitors can have a meal and conversation with one of their favourite authors. Sheer numbers make that difficult in Jaipur, but the principle of eating together at the same tables is observed. This is a very important feature of Jaipur: authors and readers mix freely and anybody can go up to an author and start a conversation about books. That is a great delight, and I cannot recall just how many engaging conversations I had in the course of the four days of Jaipur.
This admirable democratic principle is further enshrined in the Jaipur tradition of making entry to the festival and all its events free of charge. This is very attractive, as it means that nobody need ration themselves on grounds of cost. If you want to spend the entire day at talks, then you can do so at Jaipur even if you have no money. There were plenty of students and schoolchildren at this festival, some of who might well not have been able to be there had there been a charge.
And the programme, although free, was of the very highest quality. It is unusual, except in the largest most glitzy literary festivals , to find a cast of authors quite as starstudded as was the case in Jaipur. How is this pulled off? The answer, I think, is partly connected with the city itself: who can resist a visit to the world-famous pink city? But it is more than that. The way to get authors to come is to have the right directors making the appeal. Jaipur has two distinguished directors, the inspirational Namita Gokhale and that writer of genius, William Dalrymple. Both have good contacts and must have been in a position to twist quite a few otherwise busy and particular arms. The result: the top slice of the world's literary figures said yes, we're coming. Wole Soyinka, Vikram Chandra and Louis de Bernières were amongst those who accepted the invitation. And next year's provisional acceptances looks immensely distinguished too.
So Jaipur - and India - have succeeded in creating something very special. The problem now will be that of managing success. The festival has grown, but I think it should not be allowed to grow too big. If it does, then the charm and the specialness of this great literary occasion could be compromised. A literary festival is like a delicate plant: nurture it and tend it, but keep its growth under control. As it is, it's perfection itself.
The writer is the best-selling author of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, The Sunday Philosophy Club & 44 Scotland Street series
And there is quite stiff competition. This year I shall be attending literary festivals in Dubai, Hong Kong, Canada, Britain and Sweden. That sounds a lot, but it is only scratching the surface; in recent years, literary festivals have proliferated to the extent that just about every city of any significance feels that it must have one. As a result, one could, if so minded, easily spend an entire year going from literary festival to literary festival without a break; nobody in his or her right mind would do that, of course.
Literary festivals come in different flavours. At one end of the spectrum are the large trade-fair-type , of which the Frankfurt Book Fair in Germany is the senior member of the family. The Kolkata Book Fair, which I was fortunate enough to attend last year, is in this category. These are fairs where publishers show their wares, both to other publishers and to the general public. The emphasis in these is not so much on talks by authors as on showing and selling books. Kolkata is in a class of its own in terms of public attendance: over two million people cross its threshold each year.
Then there are the festivals that consist of talks and readings by authors; the Jaipur Festival is one of these, and there are a lot of them. Some are residential, with most of the public attending the festival staying at one or two festival hotels. The Galle Literary Festival in Sri Lanka is of this type. It is a paradise for the book-lover , with the holding of a series of intimate lunches at which visitors can have a meal and conversation with one of their favourite authors. Sheer numbers make that difficult in Jaipur, but the principle of eating together at the same tables is observed. This is a very important feature of Jaipur: authors and readers mix freely and anybody can go up to an author and start a conversation about books. That is a great delight, and I cannot recall just how many engaging conversations I had in the course of the four days of Jaipur.
This admirable democratic principle is further enshrined in the Jaipur tradition of making entry to the festival and all its events free of charge. This is very attractive, as it means that nobody need ration themselves on grounds of cost. If you want to spend the entire day at talks, then you can do so at Jaipur even if you have no money. There were plenty of students and schoolchildren at this festival, some of who might well not have been able to be there had there been a charge.
And the programme, although free, was of the very highest quality. It is unusual, except in the largest most glitzy literary festivals , to find a cast of authors quite as starstudded as was the case in Jaipur. How is this pulled off? The answer, I think, is partly connected with the city itself: who can resist a visit to the world-famous pink city? But it is more than that. The way to get authors to come is to have the right directors making the appeal. Jaipur has two distinguished directors, the inspirational Namita Gokhale and that writer of genius, William Dalrymple. Both have good contacts and must have been in a position to twist quite a few otherwise busy and particular arms. The result: the top slice of the world's literary figures said yes, we're coming. Wole Soyinka, Vikram Chandra and Louis de Bernières were amongst those who accepted the invitation. And next year's provisional acceptances looks immensely distinguished too.
So Jaipur - and India - have succeeded in creating something very special. The problem now will be that of managing success. The festival has grown, but I think it should not be allowed to grow too big. If it does, then the charm and the specialness of this great literary occasion could be compromised. A literary festival is like a delicate plant: nurture it and tend it, but keep its growth under control. As it is, it's perfection itself.
The writer is the best-selling author of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, The Sunday Philosophy Club & 44 Scotland Street series
State removes VAT on sugar
JAIPUR: In its bid to bring down the escalating sugar prices the state government decided to do away with the 4% VAT levied on imported sugar till June 30,2010. The state consumes close to 22,000 sacks of sugar on a daily basis of which Jaipur consumes close to 7,000 sacks and the decision would imply that sugar prices will be reduced by Rs 2.00.
Chief secretary C K Mathew said that a couple of days ago The Centre had directed all the states to do away with VAT on imported sugar. The decision will ensure that in a day or two the wholesale prices might fall to Rs 38.00. However, the prices at state -run ration shops will not be affected by this decision as VAT is not imposed on such sales. The state government made it clear that the decision will be reviewed after five months and if required changes will be made.
Chief secretary C K Mathew said that a couple of days ago The Centre had directed all the states to do away with VAT on imported sugar. The decision will ensure that in a day or two the wholesale prices might fall to Rs 38.00. However, the prices at state -run ration shops will not be affected by this decision as VAT is not imposed on such sales. The state government made it clear that the decision will be reviewed after five months and if required changes will be made.
Four remanded to police custody
JAIPUR: A local court in Baran district remanded four Congress workers to police custody for four days. They were arrested for allegedly firing at
BJP partymen while campaigning in Govindgarh village under Chipabarod police station.
On Thursday, three persons, including the brother of BJP candidate from Chipabarod, Nisar, sustained injuries when a Congress supporter allegedly fired on BJP supporters. Former minister Pratap Singh Singhvi, who was campaigning for Nisar, along with his supporters gathered outside Chipabarod police station and demanded the immediate arrest of the accused.
The incident occurred when Congress and BJP supporters came face to face during campaigning for panchayat polls in Govindgarh. After a verbal clash, the incident took a serious turn when a Congress supporter allegedly fired with his pistol and three BJP supporters sustained minor injuries.
Police said that the Congress supporters have been arrested under various Sections of IPC and the Arms Act. "We produced the accused before a local court which remanded them to police custody for four days," SHO Chipabarod, Radhey Shyam said.
SP, Baran, Om Prakash said that the arrested persons, included Shanu alias Shahnawaz and Aftab of Jhalawar and Mansoor Khan and Zakir of Chipabarod.
BJP partymen while campaigning in Govindgarh village under Chipabarod police station.
On Thursday, three persons, including the brother of BJP candidate from Chipabarod, Nisar, sustained injuries when a Congress supporter allegedly fired on BJP supporters. Former minister Pratap Singh Singhvi, who was campaigning for Nisar, along with his supporters gathered outside Chipabarod police station and demanded the immediate arrest of the accused.
The incident occurred when Congress and BJP supporters came face to face during campaigning for panchayat polls in Govindgarh. After a verbal clash, the incident took a serious turn when a Congress supporter allegedly fired with his pistol and three BJP supporters sustained minor injuries.
Police said that the Congress supporters have been arrested under various Sections of IPC and the Arms Act. "We produced the accused before a local court which remanded them to police custody for four days," SHO Chipabarod, Radhey Shyam said.
SP, Baran, Om Prakash said that the arrested persons, included Shanu alias Shahnawaz and Aftab of Jhalawar and Mansoor Khan and Zakir of Chipabarod.
Eastern Rajasthan still in grip of dacoit gangs
JAIPUR: Even after the surrender of notorious Jagan Gujjar, the border districts of eastern Rajasthan, including Dholpur, Karauli, Bharatpur and
Sawai Madhopur, are still in grip of six dacoit gangs, including the gang headed by Jagan's brother.
Rajasthan police has claimed that the dacoits would either be eliminated or arrested as soon as the panchayat polls are over and police relaunch the anti-dacoity campaign. The dacoits, once again, challenged the police in Dholpur on Tuesday night when Mukesh Rajput and Pappu Gujjar fired on each other, injuring two villagers.
IG (Bharatpur Range) Madhusudan Singh told TOI that three notorious gangs, including the Gujjar gang (led by Jagan's brother), Pappu Gujjar and Mukesh Thakur were still active in the region. Besides, there are three smaller gangs in the eastern part of the state, he said. These gangs flee to Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh when chased.
Though Jagan Gujjar (40), who carried reward of Rs 11.50 lakh, surrendered in Karauli in February 2009 but his men are still running the gang. Wanted in 32 cases by Rajasthan police, in 12 and 6 cases by Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh police, Gujjar assured the police his men would surrender with arms and ammunition but it did not happen. His brothers, heading the gang after Jagan, still possesses sophisticated weapons including AK-47.
Singh claimed the days of existing gangs are numbered as the police would soon move against them after the panchayat polls.
Regarding gang war in Dholpur village, he said the incident occurred soon after the security force was withdrawn from the area for panchayat poll duty. They were withdrawn as the department was hard pressed and extra deployment was required at other locations, he said.
However, now the departments planned to redeploy the force and curb the dacoits. He said forces have been deployed at strategic location to keep tab on the gangs.
Sawai Madhopur, are still in grip of six dacoit gangs, including the gang headed by Jagan's brother.
Rajasthan police has claimed that the dacoits would either be eliminated or arrested as soon as the panchayat polls are over and police relaunch the anti-dacoity campaign. The dacoits, once again, challenged the police in Dholpur on Tuesday night when Mukesh Rajput and Pappu Gujjar fired on each other, injuring two villagers.
IG (Bharatpur Range) Madhusudan Singh told TOI that three notorious gangs, including the Gujjar gang (led by Jagan's brother), Pappu Gujjar and Mukesh Thakur were still active in the region. Besides, there are three smaller gangs in the eastern part of the state, he said. These gangs flee to Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh when chased.
Though Jagan Gujjar (40), who carried reward of Rs 11.50 lakh, surrendered in Karauli in February 2009 but his men are still running the gang. Wanted in 32 cases by Rajasthan police, in 12 and 6 cases by Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh police, Gujjar assured the police his men would surrender with arms and ammunition but it did not happen. His brothers, heading the gang after Jagan, still possesses sophisticated weapons including AK-47.
Singh claimed the days of existing gangs are numbered as the police would soon move against them after the panchayat polls.
Regarding gang war in Dholpur village, he said the incident occurred soon after the security force was withdrawn from the area for panchayat poll duty. They were withdrawn as the department was hard pressed and extra deployment was required at other locations, he said.
However, now the departments planned to redeploy the force and curb the dacoits. He said forces have been deployed at strategic location to keep tab on the gangs.
The politician with a clean image
JAIPUR: Ram Niwas Mirdha was one of the foremost politician who opted to be in public life rather than serving as a bureaucrat. In 1953 he quit his Rajasthan Adminstrative Service job to contest the by-election from Jayal in Nagaur district.
Son of Baldeo Ram Mirdha, a DIG in police in the erstwhile Jodhpur state and a patriarch of the Jats of Marwar region, who organised the Marwar peasants to found the Kisan Sabha.
Nathu Ram Mirdha, was a distant uncle of Ram Niwas Mirdha and is remembered as the tallest leader of the farming community, started his career in the Kisan Sabha under the late Baldeo Ram. But in 1952 Kisan Sabha was merged with the Congress. Ram Niwas served as the secretary of Nathu Ram when he was a minister in Tika Ram Palawal and Jai Narayan Vya's cabinet. Ram Niwas was educated in Jodhpur and did his post graduation from Allahabad University and his law from Lucknow University. He then went to study international affairs at Geneva in Switzerland.
When he was the secretary of Nathu Ram he was known for writing letters and conversing in fluent English and was regarded as a "padha likha Jat (educated Jat). Known for his pleasing manners, he was groomed in politics by his uncle Nathu Ram who helped him to get Congress nomination in the by-election in Jayal.
Nathu Ram Mirdha declined to join Mohan Lal Sukhadia's cabinet in 1954 when Sukhadia had displaced Jai Narayan Vyas and became the youngest chief minister of the country at 35. Nathu Ram promoted Ram Niwas Mirdha as a "padha likha aadmi". For two years Nathu Ram kept himself from the power game. But in 1957, after the second Vidhan Sabha election, he pushed his candidature for a berth in Sukhadia's cabinet. He successfully lobbied to ensure that Ram Niwas become the Speaker.
In 1973, after the death of Barkatullah Khan, Ram Niwas was sent by the party's leadership to stake his claim for the chief minister's post. He was obvious choice of Indira Gandhi, but lacked a solid support base in the state politics as he spent most of his time in Delhi.
In the CLP election Mirdha polled 13 votes less than Harideo Joshi and failed to be the "first Jat chief minister" of the state.
Interestingly, when Ram Niwas' son Rajendra, who died only last year, was abducted by Khalistani activists led by Navdeep Kadiyan, Shekhawat was the CM. Forgetting political affiliation Shekhawat kept Ram Niwas in good humour till his son was freed from the clutches of the Sikh terrorist Kadiyan, who was gunned down in an encounter.
Ram Niwas defeated his mentor Nathu Ram in the 1984 Lok Sabha election from Nagaur. After this their relationship soured. When Nathu Ram died and a by-election was effected in Nagaur for the Lok Sabha, Nathu's son Bhanu Prakash defeated Ram Niwas because the people wanted to pay their tribute to Nathu Ram who was a towering leader .
Ram Niwas enjoyed a good and clean image although he did not leave behind an impressive record as a minister or as chairman of various academies that he headed. But it was his clean image that made him the chairman of the joint parliamentary committee to probe the economic scams.
Son of Baldeo Ram Mirdha, a DIG in police in the erstwhile Jodhpur state and a patriarch of the Jats of Marwar region, who organised the Marwar peasants to found the Kisan Sabha.
Nathu Ram Mirdha, was a distant uncle of Ram Niwas Mirdha and is remembered as the tallest leader of the farming community, started his career in the Kisan Sabha under the late Baldeo Ram. But in 1952 Kisan Sabha was merged with the Congress. Ram Niwas served as the secretary of Nathu Ram when he was a minister in Tika Ram Palawal and Jai Narayan Vya's cabinet. Ram Niwas was educated in Jodhpur and did his post graduation from Allahabad University and his law from Lucknow University. He then went to study international affairs at Geneva in Switzerland.
When he was the secretary of Nathu Ram he was known for writing letters and conversing in fluent English and was regarded as a "padha likha Jat (educated Jat). Known for his pleasing manners, he was groomed in politics by his uncle Nathu Ram who helped him to get Congress nomination in the by-election in Jayal.
Nathu Ram Mirdha declined to join Mohan Lal Sukhadia's cabinet in 1954 when Sukhadia had displaced Jai Narayan Vyas and became the youngest chief minister of the country at 35. Nathu Ram promoted Ram Niwas Mirdha as a "padha likha aadmi". For two years Nathu Ram kept himself from the power game. But in 1957, after the second Vidhan Sabha election, he pushed his candidature for a berth in Sukhadia's cabinet. He successfully lobbied to ensure that Ram Niwas become the Speaker.
In 1973, after the death of Barkatullah Khan, Ram Niwas was sent by the party's leadership to stake his claim for the chief minister's post. He was obvious choice of Indira Gandhi, but lacked a solid support base in the state politics as he spent most of his time in Delhi.
In the CLP election Mirdha polled 13 votes less than Harideo Joshi and failed to be the "first Jat chief minister" of the state.
Interestingly, when Ram Niwas' son Rajendra, who died only last year, was abducted by Khalistani activists led by Navdeep Kadiyan, Shekhawat was the CM. Forgetting political affiliation Shekhawat kept Ram Niwas in good humour till his son was freed from the clutches of the Sikh terrorist Kadiyan, who was gunned down in an encounter.
Ram Niwas defeated his mentor Nathu Ram in the 1984 Lok Sabha election from Nagaur. After this their relationship soured. When Nathu Ram died and a by-election was effected in Nagaur for the Lok Sabha, Nathu's son Bhanu Prakash defeated Ram Niwas because the people wanted to pay their tribute to Nathu Ram who was a towering leader .
Ram Niwas enjoyed a good and clean image although he did not leave behind an impressive record as a minister or as chairman of various academies that he headed. But it was his clean image that made him the chairman of the joint parliamentary committee to probe the economic scams.
Land use change procedure to be made more responsive
JAIPUR: People can now take the matter related to land use change to the next senior official if the competent authority is unable to take a
decision within a prescribed time limit. The urban development department has included the provision in the proposed amendments to the land use change rules, popularly known as Section 90-B of Rajasthan Land Revenue Act.
The amendments will soon be discussed with the revenue and law departments before being placed for cabinet's formal approval. The decision was taken at a meeting the senior urban development officials had with the chief secretary on Friday.
"The land use change will be made more transparent and responsive towards the applicant and it has been decided that all the three concerned departments should jointly finalise the changes," said principal secretary (urban development) G S Sandhu.
"It has been decided that the provisions should be made strict to ensure proper implementation of the master plan and maintain restrain over usage of land against its proposed use," Sandhu added.
Along with Section 90-B, changes have also been proposed in Section 90-A to ease the regularisation process for unauthorised use of agricultural land in urban areas.
Under the current norms the agriculture land in urban area is considered acquired by the urban development department if it is put to use for commercial or residential purpose.
As the property ownership is considered transferred to the state department, a land use change thereafter is not possible generating difficulty in approval of dozens of such illegally developed residential colonies across the state.
"It is proposed that such land should be considered a property of the local development body and it should be provided rights for facilitating the land use change after application of appropriate fees and penalty," said a senior urban development officer.
Through a notification released in February 2009, the department had made changes in the land use change procedure. The step was taken to ensure transparency and accountability in the procedure in view of allegations of widespread corruption.
According to the notification a period of 60 days was fixed to decide on proposals that do not require land use change and the proposals requiring land use change will have to be decided upon in 120 days.
Also, the local bodies were authorised to convert land only in areas covered under sector plan, the issue of access road will not be faced by upcoming residential projects.
The notification also had provisions of strict legal action against the land mafia and a new format for land deeds was also proposed for the private developers.
decision within a prescribed time limit. The urban development department has included the provision in the proposed amendments to the land use change rules, popularly known as Section 90-B of Rajasthan Land Revenue Act.
The amendments will soon be discussed with the revenue and law departments before being placed for cabinet's formal approval. The decision was taken at a meeting the senior urban development officials had with the chief secretary on Friday.
"The land use change will be made more transparent and responsive towards the applicant and it has been decided that all the three concerned departments should jointly finalise the changes," said principal secretary (urban development) G S Sandhu.
"It has been decided that the provisions should be made strict to ensure proper implementation of the master plan and maintain restrain over usage of land against its proposed use," Sandhu added.
Along with Section 90-B, changes have also been proposed in Section 90-A to ease the regularisation process for unauthorised use of agricultural land in urban areas.
Under the current norms the agriculture land in urban area is considered acquired by the urban development department if it is put to use for commercial or residential purpose.
As the property ownership is considered transferred to the state department, a land use change thereafter is not possible generating difficulty in approval of dozens of such illegally developed residential colonies across the state.
"It is proposed that such land should be considered a property of the local development body and it should be provided rights for facilitating the land use change after application of appropriate fees and penalty," said a senior urban development officer.
Through a notification released in February 2009, the department had made changes in the land use change procedure. The step was taken to ensure transparency and accountability in the procedure in view of allegations of widespread corruption.
According to the notification a period of 60 days was fixed to decide on proposals that do not require land use change and the proposals requiring land use change will have to be decided upon in 120 days.
Also, the local bodies were authorised to convert land only in areas covered under sector plan, the issue of access road will not be faced by upcoming residential projects.
The notification also had provisions of strict legal action against the land mafia and a new format for land deeds was also proposed for the private developers.
Gaj Singh's stolen car recovered
JAIPUR: A day after the Mercedes car owned by erstwhile ruler of Jodhpur Gaj Singh was stolen from a showroom in Sitapura Industrial Area, the car
was recovered from Sikar Road where it was lying unattended on Friday. The police, suspecting that the car might have been lifted by a showroom employee, have rounded up some of them, but arrest could not be made in the matter by late evening.
The police said after the car was reported stolen on Thursday from the Chevrolet showroom which also provides facility of Mercedes cars' servicing, intense search had been launched. "The gears had developed some technical snag following which the car had been sent to the service station a week ago. The driver had returned to Jodhpur after giving the car to the service station's manager," said Biju Jorge Joseph, SP (east).
On Thursday, the manager of the showroom found the car missing from outside the showroom where it had been parked in the afternoon. "The keys without which the car can not be opened due to its sophisticated locking system were also found missing. The keys were inside the showroom hanging from a wall," said the officer.
He said prima-facie investigations have revealed that the keys were easily accessible to the showroom employees only. "Our theory is that some employees might have stolen the car to bring disrepute to the showroom. Besides, the possibility of someone stealing the car just for fun also could not be ruled out," he said.
On Friday morning, the car was spotted by some policemen parked at the Sikar Road near Alka Cinema Hall in Vishwakarma area. "The keys were missing from the car's ignition. No damage has been done to the car," said the officer.
The forensic examination of the car was conducted and police have recovered some fingerprints. "The fingerprints will be matched with all the showroom employees," said a police officer.
The car was brought to Sanganer Sadar police station and an FIR was registered in the matter by the car driver who reached Jaipur from Jodhpur in the afternoon.
An employee of the showroom told TOI that the car had been bought in 2007. "Someone from Ummed Palace in Jodhpur had inquired about the car on phone on Thursday evening and when the showroom manager went to check the status, it was found missing," said the employee.
The fact that the person who stole the car managed to drive it to Vishwakarma area despite alert on this conspicuous car has raised questions over police's promptness in vehicle lifting cases. A police officer said that the lifter could have managed this as the police might have been informed about the theft much latter after the car was stolen.
was recovered from Sikar Road where it was lying unattended on Friday. The police, suspecting that the car might have been lifted by a showroom employee, have rounded up some of them, but arrest could not be made in the matter by late evening.
The police said after the car was reported stolen on Thursday from the Chevrolet showroom which also provides facility of Mercedes cars' servicing, intense search had been launched. "The gears had developed some technical snag following which the car had been sent to the service station a week ago. The driver had returned to Jodhpur after giving the car to the service station's manager," said Biju Jorge Joseph, SP (east).
On Thursday, the manager of the showroom found the car missing from outside the showroom where it had been parked in the afternoon. "The keys without which the car can not be opened due to its sophisticated locking system were also found missing. The keys were inside the showroom hanging from a wall," said the officer.
He said prima-facie investigations have revealed that the keys were easily accessible to the showroom employees only. "Our theory is that some employees might have stolen the car to bring disrepute to the showroom. Besides, the possibility of someone stealing the car just for fun also could not be ruled out," he said.
On Friday morning, the car was spotted by some policemen parked at the Sikar Road near Alka Cinema Hall in Vishwakarma area. "The keys were missing from the car's ignition. No damage has been done to the car," said the officer.
The forensic examination of the car was conducted and police have recovered some fingerprints. "The fingerprints will be matched with all the showroom employees," said a police officer.
The car was brought to Sanganer Sadar police station and an FIR was registered in the matter by the car driver who reached Jaipur from Jodhpur in the afternoon.
An employee of the showroom told TOI that the car had been bought in 2007. "Someone from Ummed Palace in Jodhpur had inquired about the car on phone on Thursday evening and when the showroom manager went to check the status, it was found missing," said the employee.
The fact that the person who stole the car managed to drive it to Vishwakarma area despite alert on this conspicuous car has raised questions over police's promptness in vehicle lifting cases. A police officer said that the lifter could have managed this as the police might have been informed about the theft much latter after the car was stolen.
Rescue operation on to pull boy out of borewell
JAIPUR: Rescue operations are on to pull out a four-year-old boy who fell into a 250-ft deep borewell in Rajasthan's Bhilwara district, the police
Condition of Pankaj who is stuck about 20-22 feet down in the borewell, since yesterday, is not known. However, oxygen is being supplied continuously, they said.
The incident occurred last afternoon at Jahazpur village when Pankaj was playing near the borewell and fell into it.
"Rescuers have so far dug a pit parallel to the borewell and now a connecting tunnel of three feet will be made to pull the boy out," Amardeep Singh, SHO Jahazpur said.
Rescue operations with the help of five earth movers continued through the night and are expected to last for few more hours, he said.
Last year in November, a four-year-old boy Sahil had fallen into a borewell in Shahpura town of Jaipur district. He could not be pulled out despite efforts by the government for many days.
In a similar incident in Andhra Pradesh earlier this month, a one-and-half-year-old boy fell into a 30-ft-deep borewell at a hamlet in Warangal district and was found dead after a 24-hour-long operation.
Condition of Pankaj who is stuck about 20-22 feet down in the borewell, since yesterday, is not known. However, oxygen is being supplied continuously, they said.
The incident occurred last afternoon at Jahazpur village when Pankaj was playing near the borewell and fell into it.
"Rescuers have so far dug a pit parallel to the borewell and now a connecting tunnel of three feet will be made to pull the boy out," Amardeep Singh, SHO Jahazpur said.
Rescue operations with the help of five earth movers continued through the night and are expected to last for few more hours, he said.
Last year in November, a four-year-old boy Sahil had fallen into a borewell in Shahpura town of Jaipur district. He could not be pulled out despite efforts by the government for many days.
In a similar incident in Andhra Pradesh earlier this month, a one-and-half-year-old boy fell into a 30-ft-deep borewell at a hamlet in Warangal district and was found dead after a 24-hour-long operation.
Hunt on for second venue for lit festival
JAIPUR: After five years, the DSC Jaipur Literary Festival may have grown too big to fit into one venue. From 2011, the lit fest, which saw record
footfalls this year, may be held at both Diggi Palace — the original venue — and either the City Palace or Raj Mahal.
“With the festival growing rapidly in size and stature each year, some modifications in the format are not just necessitated but would be mandatory for the next festival. Maybe, we could consider having the evening events at an alternative venue and keep the daylong sessions at Diggi Palace,” said festival producer Sanjoy Roy.
A festival organising committee member said, “The City Palace is far more spacious and Princess Diya Kumari is very keen. There have been initial discussions about hosting the event in the City Palace, probably behind the Chander Mahal. But the formalities and modalities will be worked out later. The only hitch is that this is one event which is not by invitation and is free for all. In that case, security may be an issue.”
Diya Kumari said there were no discussions so far but she won’t have any problems with any such proposal. “We have had no such discussion, but if the organisers are interested we would certainly be keen to negotiate,” she said.
footfalls this year, may be held at both Diggi Palace — the original venue — and either the City Palace or Raj Mahal.
“With the festival growing rapidly in size and stature each year, some modifications in the format are not just necessitated but would be mandatory for the next festival. Maybe, we could consider having the evening events at an alternative venue and keep the daylong sessions at Diggi Palace,” said festival producer Sanjoy Roy.
A festival organising committee member said, “The City Palace is far more spacious and Princess Diya Kumari is very keen. There have been initial discussions about hosting the event in the City Palace, probably behind the Chander Mahal. But the formalities and modalities will be worked out later. The only hitch is that this is one event which is not by invitation and is free for all. In that case, security may be an issue.”
Diya Kumari said there were no discussions so far but she won’t have any problems with any such proposal. “We have had no such discussion, but if the organisers are interested we would certainly be keen to negotiate,” she said.
4-yr-old boy falls into borewell, rescue operation on
JAIPUR: In yet another borewell tragedy, a four-year-old boy fell into a 250-ft borewell while he was playing near it in Piploond village of
Jahazpur district in Bhilwara on Thursday.
The incident came to light when the family members of the boy spotted him in borewell. Soon the district administration and police were informed about the incident, following which earthmoving machine was called to the spot and the rescue operation was launched in full.
Bhilwara police said that the boy, Pankaj, fell into the 250-ft borewell and was stuck about 20-22 feet down in the borewell. A team of doctors and medical staff and police and administrative officials rushed to the spot soon after the incident came to light.
The rescue team said that they were facing difficulty in rescue operation due to lack of visibility and efforts are on to make the arrangement of lighting. At the same time, all precautions are being taken that the position of the victim is not affected otherwise he might slip further down into the borewell.
Earlier in November last year, a four-year-old boy Sahil had fallen into a borewell in Shahpura town of Jaipur district. He could not be saved despite efforts by the rescue team for many days.
Jahazpur district in Bhilwara on Thursday.
The incident came to light when the family members of the boy spotted him in borewell. Soon the district administration and police were informed about the incident, following which earthmoving machine was called to the spot and the rescue operation was launched in full.
Bhilwara police said that the boy, Pankaj, fell into the 250-ft borewell and was stuck about 20-22 feet down in the borewell. A team of doctors and medical staff and police and administrative officials rushed to the spot soon after the incident came to light.
The rescue team said that they were facing difficulty in rescue operation due to lack of visibility and efforts are on to make the arrangement of lighting. At the same time, all precautions are being taken that the position of the victim is not affected otherwise he might slip further down into the borewell.
Earlier in November last year, a four-year-old boy Sahil had fallen into a borewell in Shahpura town of Jaipur district. He could not be saved despite efforts by the rescue team for many days.
Times Franchise Expo from tomorrow
JAIPUR: The Times of India is organising a two-day "Times Franchise Expo" at Birla Auditorium here on January 30 and 31. This will be the 30th
exhibition in the Times Franchise Expo series.
The expo is an opportunity to meet face to face with thousands of potential franchisees or business partners eager to start their own business. It will also offer an insight into all the aspects of franchising both nationally and internationally.
The expo has proved to be the most successful B2B marketplace and has successfully completed 29 exhibitions in 15 cities across the country in which more than 300 brands have participated and over a lakh visitors have attended the show.
The expo aims at providing a proactive platform for entrepreneurs to interact with franchisors. The representatives of the participating companies would discuss their business models with the entrepreneurs.
The exhibition will also showcase several business opportunities from renowned companies with investment range starting from as low as Rs 50,000.
The expo will remain open between 10.30 am and 7.00 pm. Interested persons can contact Varun (9829101014) and Vishwesh (9423055270) for details.
exhibition in the Times Franchise Expo series.
The expo is an opportunity to meet face to face with thousands of potential franchisees or business partners eager to start their own business. It will also offer an insight into all the aspects of franchising both nationally and internationally.
The expo has proved to be the most successful B2B marketplace and has successfully completed 29 exhibitions in 15 cities across the country in which more than 300 brands have participated and over a lakh visitors have attended the show.
The expo aims at providing a proactive platform for entrepreneurs to interact with franchisors. The representatives of the participating companies would discuss their business models with the entrepreneurs.
The exhibition will also showcase several business opportunities from renowned companies with investment range starting from as low as Rs 50,000.
The expo will remain open between 10.30 am and 7.00 pm. Interested persons can contact Varun (9829101014) and Vishwesh (9423055270) for details.
Cops fail to locate Tandon's son
JAIPUR: Revelations in the Ruchika suicide case involving former Haryana DGP, SPS Rathore, has impacted some states where tainted cops are roaming
scot-free despite being accused in cases of heinous nature. Rajasthan government had to face public ire as Meena tribals demonstrated against police failure to arrest IPS officer Madhukar Tandon, who is wanted on charges of raping a tribal woman, 13 years ago.
On Thursday, the state announced Rs 50,000 for any information about Tandon. The state police is now searching for family members, including Tandon's son, to ascertain the whereabouts of the tainted cop.
Police officials claimed they have come to know about Tandon's son only recently when they prepared records of all possible hideouts of the accused. Cops have conducted raids at many places to locate him. A senior cop admitted they have failed to locate even the son, let alone the culprit.
"Tandon had divorced his wife and had a son from her. After the teams. to nab the absconding officer, were formed in the last week of December, we came to know about him. The police have zeroed in' on his whereabouts and we hope that we will get a lead about Tandon through his son," said a senior police officer.
After Tandon was accused of raping the woman at his Noida residence on January 21, 1997, no background check of the accused was conducted. It proves police "leniency" in the matter. The victim and her family members allege that the officer was given special favours by the police due to his connections in the political and bureaucratic circles. They also say he visited Jaipur after the rape incident and even sold his property. This included a 1,500 square feet plot in Hanuman Nagar, a 10 bigha farmhouse on Ajmer Road and a plot of land in Vaishali Nagar. While the land transactions were being finalised, Tandon reportedly stayed at an IPS officer's bungalow in Jaipur.
The police officer claimed the SOG teams formed to nab the accused have conducted raids at many places in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, but so far they have not been successful. The police ruled out the possibility of the officer migrating to another country. "We have not come across any clue suggesting he might have fled abroad. We would issue a red-corner notice if we got any clue regarding this," said the officer.
The basis of this confidence stems from the fact that Tandon does not possess an Indian passport. "We have checked records and have come to know that as he does not have a passport, his fleeing to some foreign country is unlikely, unless, he has forged a passport," said the officer.
On Wednesday, the police announced a cash reward of Rs 50,000 for anybody giving information on the former DIG. In the backdrop of Ruchika case, the rape involving Tandon hit headlines when the victim, a resident of Bandikui village in Dausa, staged a dharna near CM Ashok Gehlot's residence with her family and Dausa MP Kirori Lal Meena on December 30.
The victim and her family accused the police and government of being hand-in-glove with the former DIG. Home minister Shanti Dhariwal assured them that the matter would taken up seriously.
scot-free despite being accused in cases of heinous nature. Rajasthan government had to face public ire as Meena tribals demonstrated against police failure to arrest IPS officer Madhukar Tandon, who is wanted on charges of raping a tribal woman, 13 years ago.
On Thursday, the state announced Rs 50,000 for any information about Tandon. The state police is now searching for family members, including Tandon's son, to ascertain the whereabouts of the tainted cop.
Police officials claimed they have come to know about Tandon's son only recently when they prepared records of all possible hideouts of the accused. Cops have conducted raids at many places to locate him. A senior cop admitted they have failed to locate even the son, let alone the culprit.
"Tandon had divorced his wife and had a son from her. After the teams. to nab the absconding officer, were formed in the last week of December, we came to know about him. The police have zeroed in' on his whereabouts and we hope that we will get a lead about Tandon through his son," said a senior police officer.
After Tandon was accused of raping the woman at his Noida residence on January 21, 1997, no background check of the accused was conducted. It proves police "leniency" in the matter. The victim and her family members allege that the officer was given special favours by the police due to his connections in the political and bureaucratic circles. They also say he visited Jaipur after the rape incident and even sold his property. This included a 1,500 square feet plot in Hanuman Nagar, a 10 bigha farmhouse on Ajmer Road and a plot of land in Vaishali Nagar. While the land transactions were being finalised, Tandon reportedly stayed at an IPS officer's bungalow in Jaipur.
The police officer claimed the SOG teams formed to nab the accused have conducted raids at many places in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, but so far they have not been successful. The police ruled out the possibility of the officer migrating to another country. "We have not come across any clue suggesting he might have fled abroad. We would issue a red-corner notice if we got any clue regarding this," said the officer.
The basis of this confidence stems from the fact that Tandon does not possess an Indian passport. "We have checked records and have come to know that as he does not have a passport, his fleeing to some foreign country is unlikely, unless, he has forged a passport," said the officer.
On Wednesday, the police announced a cash reward of Rs 50,000 for anybody giving information on the former DIG. In the backdrop of Ruchika case, the rape involving Tandon hit headlines when the victim, a resident of Bandikui village in Dausa, staged a dharna near CM Ashok Gehlot's residence with her family and Dausa MP Kirori Lal Meena on December 30.
The victim and her family accused the police and government of being hand-in-glove with the former DIG. Home minister Shanti Dhariwal assured them that the matter would taken up seriously.
Grading system for Class XII draws mixed response
JAIPUR/AJMER: Union minister for human resource development (HRD) Kapil Sibal's indication of the extension of the grading system for Class 12 exams
has triggered another debate on the pros and cons of the express educational reforms.
Most of the experts favour reforms in the school education system and reducing the pressure on the children. However, they expressed concern over executing the whole concept in a break neck speed in an over populated country with cut-throat competition.
Principal of Step by Step School Jaisree Periwal said, "Grading is a system I like. But how to go about it. We should take a lot of care in the execution in a country of our magnitude with a tough competition." There are a lot of practical problems which has to be taken in to account. "How you make the difference among the students who scored A+ while you have not as many seats to spare for them higher education?" These are practical things which should be addressed.
Principal of St Anslem School, Mansarovar, Fr Edward Oliveira said, "In the first place, the minister has to take schools into confidence before making announcements."
He announced the introduction of the grading system in Class X while half of the academic year was over in September creating a lot of confusion. He was of the opinion that we have one of the best school education in the world. However, there is scope for reforms and improvement . However, any reform in the system should be consistent and well thought out and acceptable to the major stake holders. Over the night reforms will end up creating a situation of throwing the baby with the bath water, he said.
"Certainly grading in Class XII will reduce the undue pressure from students. This will help more to the students who are falling in gray area of passing and failing. But we have to see what guidelines the board will adopt in applying grading in Class XII. Everything depends on the way the grading is introduced in senior secondary," said Neeraj Bhadotia, principal of Mayoor School, Ajmer. "Board has not yet issued any guideline to us but whatever the change it will bring to examination system it need accurate study. The decision will hamper coming three four sessions," added Samar Bhaduri, principal of Mayo College, Ajmer.
Many specialists think that bringing changes at pace will not help the board and the schools as well as the students are not ready for it. "It is not a matter of Class XII exam but it will affect the procedure of admission and choosing streams. If there would be a joint entrance exam for taking admission in colleges then again there is no surety that students again perform better what they have done in board papers," said Sister Francine, principal of Saint Mary's Convent School in Ajmer.
On other hand most of the teachers doubted that just removing pressure of board exam is just like making students irresponsible. "They will say that to get admission in college they will work hard for entrance exam only," said a teacher. They added that it is something like removing the burden of exam in board class and putting it on the entrance exam.
has triggered another debate on the pros and cons of the express educational reforms.
Most of the experts favour reforms in the school education system and reducing the pressure on the children. However, they expressed concern over executing the whole concept in a break neck speed in an over populated country with cut-throat competition.
Principal of Step by Step School Jaisree Periwal said, "Grading is a system I like. But how to go about it. We should take a lot of care in the execution in a country of our magnitude with a tough competition." There are a lot of practical problems which has to be taken in to account. "How you make the difference among the students who scored A+ while you have not as many seats to spare for them higher education?" These are practical things which should be addressed.
Principal of St Anslem School, Mansarovar, Fr Edward Oliveira said, "In the first place, the minister has to take schools into confidence before making announcements."
He announced the introduction of the grading system in Class X while half of the academic year was over in September creating a lot of confusion. He was of the opinion that we have one of the best school education in the world. However, there is scope for reforms and improvement . However, any reform in the system should be consistent and well thought out and acceptable to the major stake holders. Over the night reforms will end up creating a situation of throwing the baby with the bath water, he said.
"Certainly grading in Class XII will reduce the undue pressure from students. This will help more to the students who are falling in gray area of passing and failing. But we have to see what guidelines the board will adopt in applying grading in Class XII. Everything depends on the way the grading is introduced in senior secondary," said Neeraj Bhadotia, principal of Mayoor School, Ajmer. "Board has not yet issued any guideline to us but whatever the change it will bring to examination system it need accurate study. The decision will hamper coming three four sessions," added Samar Bhaduri, principal of Mayo College, Ajmer.
Many specialists think that bringing changes at pace will not help the board and the schools as well as the students are not ready for it. "It is not a matter of Class XII exam but it will affect the procedure of admission and choosing streams. If there would be a joint entrance exam for taking admission in colleges then again there is no surety that students again perform better what they have done in board papers," said Sister Francine, principal of Saint Mary's Convent School in Ajmer.
On other hand most of the teachers doubted that just removing pressure of board exam is just like making students irresponsible. "They will say that to get admission in college they will work hard for entrance exam only," said a teacher. They added that it is something like removing the burden of exam in board class and putting it on the entrance exam.
Saif's effigy burnt in Jodhpur
JODHPUR: Launching their agitation to build a consensus against the nomination of Saif Ali Khan for Padma Shri, members of the Bishnoi community,
under various banners, burnt an effigy of Saif on Thursday morning. Many have written to the President requesting reconsideration of the decision.
The Bishnoi Commando Force on Thursday morning burnt an effigy of Saif at Nai Sarak Circle.
General secretary of the Bishnoi Tiger Vanya Evam Paryavaran Sanstha, Ram Niwas Budhnagar said here, "We have requested the President Pratibha Devisingh Patil to withdraw this announcement." In the fax to the President, Bishnoi leaders have brought to her notice the legal proceedings pending against Saif as an accused under Section 9/52 of the Wildlife (Conservation) Act 1972. It has been mentioned that the maximum punishment for this crime is four years imprisonment.
Budhnagar said, "This is an award meant for a person with some outstanding contribution to the cultural, social or national ethos and unfortunately Saif has no merit."
Supporting him, Babulal Jaju, state coordionator for the People for Animals, also condemned the decision. He said, glorification of a wildlife accused like Salman Khan and now Saif Ali Khan and sharing stage with Salman in an event by the tourism minister Bina Kak and home minister Shanti Dhariwal is something which will demorilise those working for the cause of environment and wildlife. Jaju is also going to write to the Union minister for forest and environment Jairam Ramesh condemning such "misdeeds".
Budhnagar has said, "We will continue our protest until the decision is withdrawn by building pressure on the government, but in a Gandhian' style. This fax to President will be followed by a similar fax to the Prime Minister and a delegation of like-minded people to New Delhi."
He said, "We are committed to take this crusade to the national level.
under various banners, burnt an effigy of Saif on Thursday morning. Many have written to the President requesting reconsideration of the decision.
The Bishnoi Commando Force on Thursday morning burnt an effigy of Saif at Nai Sarak Circle.
General secretary of the Bishnoi Tiger Vanya Evam Paryavaran Sanstha, Ram Niwas Budhnagar said here, "We have requested the President Pratibha Devisingh Patil to withdraw this announcement." In the fax to the President, Bishnoi leaders have brought to her notice the legal proceedings pending against Saif as an accused under Section 9/52 of the Wildlife (Conservation) Act 1972. It has been mentioned that the maximum punishment for this crime is four years imprisonment.
Budhnagar said, "This is an award meant for a person with some outstanding contribution to the cultural, social or national ethos and unfortunately Saif has no merit."
Supporting him, Babulal Jaju, state coordionator for the People for Animals, also condemned the decision. He said, glorification of a wildlife accused like Salman Khan and now Saif Ali Khan and sharing stage with Salman in an event by the tourism minister Bina Kak and home minister Shanti Dhariwal is something which will demorilise those working for the cause of environment and wildlife. Jaju is also going to write to the Union minister for forest and environment Jairam Ramesh condemning such "misdeeds".
Budhnagar has said, "We will continue our protest until the decision is withdrawn by building pressure on the government, but in a Gandhian' style. This fax to President will be followed by a similar fax to the Prime Minister and a delegation of like-minded people to New Delhi."
He said, "We are committed to take this crusade to the national level.
Plans afoot to restore temple at Vrindavan
JAIPUR: After 'restoring' Brahma Kund recently, the Braj Foundation have now embarked on reviving the Radha Madhav temple in Vrindavan. The historic
temple is a property of Rajasthan government.
According to Vineet Narayan, CEO of the foundation, initial talks for this have been held with the state government. "Having seen our record of restoring heritage temples, forests and even the Yamuna the state government has evinced interest in our offer of restoring the Radha Madhav temple. The state wants the temple to be restored in a public-private partnership model," Narayan said.
The foundation is responsible for the restoration of large parts of the Braj Chourasi Kos, including the Koile Ghat in Mathura, and the Gahvarvan in Barsana. The foundation has recently prepared a Rs 2,000-crore tourism plan for Braj for the UP government.
The Radha Madhav temple is said to have been built by Jayadeva 900 years ago, making it one of the oldest temple in Vrindavana. But years of neglect has left its impact. Not only is it in a dilapidated condition but most parts of the temple have also been encroached. The possession of the temple now lies with the devasthan department of Rajasthan.
"We want to develop the temple in such a way so that it not only becomes a brand for Rajasthan but also attracts tourists of the Kama-Deeg area. In the proposed PPP model, we will be able to generate revenue not only for this temple but also for restoring other temples with the devasthan department," he said.
The foundation will submit the proposal to the state government soon and hopes to finish the work in a year. "A lot of landscaping, construction and beautification work will be needed," Narayan said.
temple is a property of Rajasthan government.
According to Vineet Narayan, CEO of the foundation, initial talks for this have been held with the state government. "Having seen our record of restoring heritage temples, forests and even the Yamuna the state government has evinced interest in our offer of restoring the Radha Madhav temple. The state wants the temple to be restored in a public-private partnership model," Narayan said.
The foundation is responsible for the restoration of large parts of the Braj Chourasi Kos, including the Koile Ghat in Mathura, and the Gahvarvan in Barsana. The foundation has recently prepared a Rs 2,000-crore tourism plan for Braj for the UP government.
The Radha Madhav temple is said to have been built by Jayadeva 900 years ago, making it one of the oldest temple in Vrindavana. But years of neglect has left its impact. Not only is it in a dilapidated condition but most parts of the temple have also been encroached. The possession of the temple now lies with the devasthan department of Rajasthan.
"We want to develop the temple in such a way so that it not only becomes a brand for Rajasthan but also attracts tourists of the Kama-Deeg area. In the proposed PPP model, we will be able to generate revenue not only for this temple but also for restoring other temples with the devasthan department," he said.
The foundation will submit the proposal to the state government soon and hopes to finish the work in a year. "A lot of landscaping, construction and beautification work will be needed," Narayan said.
Anger in Jodhpur over Padma Shri to Saif Ali Khan
JODHPUR: Anger simmers in Jodhpur region where the Bishnoi community and the wildlife activists are agitated over the Padma Shri given to actor Saif
Ali Khan, who is an accused along with Salman Khan in a case involving killing of black bucks here.
The infamous killing of black bucks took place 1998 in Jodhpur and the case is still under trial. The wildlife activists in the region, who are irked over the felicitation' of Khan, are planning to shot off a letter to the Union government against the decision.
Terming the development as an insult to the award itself, activists of Community for Wildlife and Rural Development (COWRD) and Bishnoi Tiger Vanyajeev Evam Paryavaran Sansthan (BTVPS) said they will soon to write to the President and the Prime Minister protesting against the decision.
"It is unfortunate that a person accused under the Wildlife Act has been chosen for this prestigious award, which is suggestive of putting the sanctity and the reputation of the award at stake. We held a meeting on Wednesday and will request the Union government to reconsider its decision and take back the award. Otherwise, these awards will lose their value in the eye of the people," said president of COWRD, Gurvinder Bishnoi.
Endorsing his sentiments, Ram Niwas Budhnagar of BTVPS told TOI that Saif was chargesheeted in the court and all the allegations were struck out except the one of poaching of the endangered species of the antelope.
"Did the government not find any suitable person for the award or was it a politically motivated decision?" he asked
Meanwhile, members of the Bishnoi community are already unhappy over the hospitality being offered to Salman, who is being treated in Rajasthan as a virtual state guest, thanks to his proximity with the state tourism minister Bina Kak.
BTVPS will burn the effigy of Saif on Thursday as a mark of their protest. People for Animals also expressed their concern on honouring an accused.
Babulal Jaju of People for Animals said: "We are writing a letter to the Union minister for forests and environment, Jairam Ramesh, on the Padma Shri given to Saif which amounts to hurting the dignity of the award as well as the spirit of the recipients."
Referring to the glorification of a "wildlife convict" as he terms actor Salman Khan, he said: "The way state tourism minister and home minister share the stage with him at social events is something which discourages those working for the cause of environment and wildlife. Our elected representatives should be careful with whom they are appearing at public fourms."
Ali Khan, who is an accused along with Salman Khan in a case involving killing of black bucks here.
The infamous killing of black bucks took place 1998 in Jodhpur and the case is still under trial. The wildlife activists in the region, who are irked over the felicitation' of Khan, are planning to shot off a letter to the Union government against the decision.
Terming the development as an insult to the award itself, activists of Community for Wildlife and Rural Development (COWRD) and Bishnoi Tiger Vanyajeev Evam Paryavaran Sansthan (BTVPS) said they will soon to write to the President and the Prime Minister protesting against the decision.
"It is unfortunate that a person accused under the Wildlife Act has been chosen for this prestigious award, which is suggestive of putting the sanctity and the reputation of the award at stake. We held a meeting on Wednesday and will request the Union government to reconsider its decision and take back the award. Otherwise, these awards will lose their value in the eye of the people," said president of COWRD, Gurvinder Bishnoi.
Endorsing his sentiments, Ram Niwas Budhnagar of BTVPS told TOI that Saif was chargesheeted in the court and all the allegations were struck out except the one of poaching of the endangered species of the antelope.
"Did the government not find any suitable person for the award or was it a politically motivated decision?" he asked
Meanwhile, members of the Bishnoi community are already unhappy over the hospitality being offered to Salman, who is being treated in Rajasthan as a virtual state guest, thanks to his proximity with the state tourism minister Bina Kak.
BTVPS will burn the effigy of Saif on Thursday as a mark of their protest. People for Animals also expressed their concern on honouring an accused.
Babulal Jaju of People for Animals said: "We are writing a letter to the Union minister for forests and environment, Jairam Ramesh, on the Padma Shri given to Saif which amounts to hurting the dignity of the award as well as the spirit of the recipients."
Referring to the glorification of a "wildlife convict" as he terms actor Salman Khan, he said: "The way state tourism minister and home minister share the stage with him at social events is something which discourages those working for the cause of environment and wildlife. Our elected representatives should be careful with whom they are appearing at public fourms."
Second phase of panchayat polls tomorrow
JAIPUR: Campaigning for the second phase of panchayat polls, to be held on January 29, came to an end on Wednesday evening. The use of loud
speakers, holding public meetings, rallies etc. would be a violation of the model code of conduct. However, candidates can go door to door seeking votes.
The government has declared a holiday in the respective panchayat samiti areas on the polling day where elections will be held on Friday. The sale of liquor in these areas and within five kms radius have been banned till January 31, said the excise department.
State election commissioner A K Pandey said polling would be held for the election of 337 zillla parishad members and 1702 members of 85 panchayat samitis spread in 30 districts. The elections to the panchayats are being held in three phases and the first phase was held on January 20 and 22.
Altogether, 10,972 polling booths have been set up for 97,37,403 voters.
Due to the Baneswar festival in Dungarpur district and the Desert Festival in Jaisalmer, elections in these panchayat samitis have been postponed, Pandey said.
speakers, holding public meetings, rallies etc. would be a violation of the model code of conduct. However, candidates can go door to door seeking votes.
The government has declared a holiday in the respective panchayat samiti areas on the polling day where elections will be held on Friday. The sale of liquor in these areas and within five kms radius have been banned till January 31, said the excise department.
State election commissioner A K Pandey said polling would be held for the election of 337 zillla parishad members and 1702 members of 85 panchayat samitis spread in 30 districts. The elections to the panchayats are being held in three phases and the first phase was held on January 20 and 22.
Altogether, 10,972 polling booths have been set up for 97,37,403 voters.
Due to the Baneswar festival in Dungarpur district and the Desert Festival in Jaisalmer, elections in these panchayat samitis have been postponed, Pandey said.
Post office in Chittorgarh looted
JAIPUR: Six armed miscreants barged into the head post office of Chittorgarh and looted around Rs 80,000 after injuring the security guard in Kotwali police station area on Tuesday night. Police have registered a case against unidentified persons and investigation is on.
Around 2 am, six armed men entered the post office and caught hold of security guard Chandra Prakash. They tried to break open lockers in the strongroom but failed. Out of frustration, they thrashed the guard and locked him in a room after tying him up. Theymanaged to open an almirah and steal Rs 80,000 in cash and flee.
The police arrived on the scene only on Wednesday morning when the guard was freed by local people. The injured guard was admitted to hospital. His condition is said to be stable.
Police have recorded the statement of the guard.
Around 2 am, six armed men entered the post office and caught hold of security guard Chandra Prakash. They tried to break open lockers in the strongroom but failed. Out of frustration, they thrashed the guard and locked him in a room after tying him up. Theymanaged to open an almirah and steal Rs 80,000 in cash and flee.
The police arrived on the scene only on Wednesday morning when the guard was freed by local people. The injured guard was admitted to hospital. His condition is said to be stable.
Police have recorded the statement of the guard.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
places of jodhpur
Jaswant Sagar Dam
In 1892, Maharaja Jaswant Singh constructed Jaswant Sagar in Pichiyak village between Bilara and Bhavi of Jodhpur district.The Water from this dam is used for irrigating the greenest part of Jodhpur receives water from this dam. Boating facilities have also been made available for tourists here..
Where to Stay
The variety of hotels and guest houses in Jodhpur makes one feel at home. Accomodation here is available to suit tourists of every budget. Hotel Karni Bhawan, Ajit Bhawan are heritage hotels. Rajasthan tourist department has the Ghoomar hotel. The palace hotels as the Umaid Bhawan Palace, Ratanada Polo Palace, Taj Heri Palace, Rajputana Palace. Raj Basera also provides us with good accommodation facilities. There are low budget accomodation too.
In 1892, Maharaja Jaswant Singh constructed Jaswant Sagar in Pichiyak village between Bilara and Bhavi of Jodhpur district.The Water from this dam is used for irrigating the greenest part of Jodhpur receives water from this dam. Boating facilities have also been made available for tourists here..
Where to Stay
The variety of hotels and guest houses in Jodhpur makes one feel at home. Accomodation here is available to suit tourists of every budget. Hotel Karni Bhawan, Ajit Bhawan are heritage hotels. Rajasthan tourist department has the Ghoomar hotel. The palace hotels as the Umaid Bhawan Palace, Ratanada Polo Palace, Taj Heri Palace, Rajputana Palace. Raj Basera also provides us with good accommodation facilities. There are low budget accomodation too.
places of jodhpur
Kaylana Lake
Located 8 kms. West of Jodhpur, Kaylana lake was constructed in 1872 by Pratap Singh. It is spread over 84 square kilometers' area. Earlier this area had palaces and gardens made by two rulers of Jodhpur-Bhim Singh and Takhat Singh. These were destroyed to make Kaylana lake. Near the lake is a Dak Bungalow of PHED. Boating facilities have also been made available for tourists here.
Guda Bishnoi
This village is inhabit ated by the Bishnoi community. They are staunch believers in the sanctity of plant and animal life. Villages are marked by Khejri trees and deers which thrive.
Located 8 kms. West of Jodhpur, Kaylana lake was constructed in 1872 by Pratap Singh. It is spread over 84 square kilometers' area. Earlier this area had palaces and gardens made by two rulers of Jodhpur-Bhim Singh and Takhat Singh. These were destroyed to make Kaylana lake. Near the lake is a Dak Bungalow of PHED. Boating facilities have also been made available for tourists here.
Guda Bishnoi
This village is inhabit ated by the Bishnoi community. They are staunch believers in the sanctity of plant and animal life. Villages are marked by Khejri trees and deers which thrive.
Balsammand Lake & Palace
Many a times you must have dreamt of staying in a huge, royal palace on the sea-shore or on the banks of river or if not both at least a palace facing the water reservoir. There is such a place at Mandore in Rajasthan .The 19th Century sandstone palace built on a hillock facing Balsammand lake is one of such places that's definitely going to win your heart.
The palace was created by Maharajah Sur Singhji, as a summer pavilion. It is very finely carved with latticed windows that allow the soft, cool breeze to blow into the interiors of the palace. The embankments of the lake, in front of the palace, have domed structure that offers fabulous views of the lake encircled by hills. An artificial cascading waterfall, brings water down from the reservoir to the gardens. Mandore, is a part of Jodhpur but it enjoys the calmness by being far from the city crowd.
The rooms and suites, the entire ambience here makes one feel as if you are staying in a royal palace. One can even enjoy a walk through the trees, the rose beds, pools covered with lilies and the groves of mango, plum, banana, pomegranate and so on. One will also get to see the peacocks, blue bulls, jackals and hundreds of flying foxes (fruit bats) in the trees.
Many a times you must have dreamt of staying in a huge, royal palace on the sea-shore or on the banks of river or if not both at least a palace facing the water reservoir. There is such a place at Mandore in Rajasthan .The 19th Century sandstone palace built on a hillock facing Balsammand lake is one of such places that's definitely going to win your heart.
The palace was created by Maharajah Sur Singhji, as a summer pavilion. It is very finely carved with latticed windows that allow the soft, cool breeze to blow into the interiors of the palace. The embankments of the lake, in front of the palace, have domed structure that offers fabulous views of the lake encircled by hills. An artificial cascading waterfall, brings water down from the reservoir to the gardens. Mandore, is a part of Jodhpur but it enjoys the calmness by being far from the city crowd.
The rooms and suites, the entire ambience here makes one feel as if you are staying in a royal palace. One can even enjoy a walk through the trees, the rose beds, pools covered with lilies and the groves of mango, plum, banana, pomegranate and so on. One will also get to see the peacocks, blue bulls, jackals and hundreds of flying foxes (fruit bats) in the trees.
places of jodhpur
Ossian
65 Kms from Jodhpur, lies ruins of an ancient city called Ossian. This city is famous for Brahmanical and Jain temples, which belong to 8th and 11th century. Surya or Sun temple and the Sachiya temples are famous for their beauty. The shikhar of Sachiya temple is clustered by two rows of turrets, an ambulatory and a large assembly hall with an elaborate ceiling. This town which was once a great trading centre is an oasis and houses an abundance of peacocks. The largest of the 16 Jain and Brahmanical temples is dedicated to Mahavira, the last of the Jain tirthankars. In the same area the Surya temple has fascinating images of Durga, Surya and Ganesh. The sculptural intricacy of the Osian temples rival that of any of the famous temples of the country, be it the Sun Temple of Konark, or the Hoysala temples of Karnataka.
65 Kms from Jodhpur, lies ruins of an ancient city called Ossian. This city is famous for Brahmanical and Jain temples, which belong to 8th and 11th century. Surya or Sun temple and the Sachiya temples are famous for their beauty. The shikhar of Sachiya temple is clustered by two rows of turrets, an ambulatory and a large assembly hall with an elaborate ceiling. This town which was once a great trading centre is an oasis and houses an abundance of peacocks. The largest of the 16 Jain and Brahmanical temples is dedicated to Mahavira, the last of the Jain tirthankars. In the same area the Surya temple has fascinating images of Durga, Surya and Ganesh. The sculptural intricacy of the Osian temples rival that of any of the famous temples of the country, be it the Sun Temple of Konark, or the Hoysala temples of Karnataka.
Around Jodhpur
Mandore
Towards the north of Jodhpur is the ancient capital of Marwar, Mandore. It is just 8 Kms from the city. Main attractions of the place are hall of Heroes where sixteen huge figures which have been carved out of a single rock, the shrine of 330 million Gods and the royal cenotaphs. This area is of immense historical importance but what makes it worthy of a visit is the Hall of Heroes. Sixteen gigantic figures carved out of a single rock depicting popular Hindu and folk deities stand there in bright colours and are well maintained. But one can not miss the caves in crags and the sprawling gardens, which are now shelter place for monkeys and peacocks. Greenery of the place makes Mandore, in true sense, an oasis.
Towards the north of Jodhpur is the ancient capital of Marwar, Mandore. It is just 8 Kms from the city. Main attractions of the place are hall of Heroes where sixteen huge figures which have been carved out of a single rock, the shrine of 330 million Gods and the royal cenotaphs. This area is of immense historical importance but what makes it worthy of a visit is the Hall of Heroes. Sixteen gigantic figures carved out of a single rock depicting popular Hindu and folk deities stand there in bright colours and are well maintained. But one can not miss the caves in crags and the sprawling gardens, which are now shelter place for monkeys and peacocks. Greenery of the place makes Mandore, in true sense, an oasis.
places of jodhpur
Siddhnath
Siddhnath Shiv temple is located between Takhat Sagar hills. On the road going from the right of filter house on Jodhpur-Chopasani Road, on crossing the stairs made by cutting rocks, one can reach Siddhnath temple. Many years ago it was an absolutely deserted place. And because of that, a hermit Veetragi Narain Swami started staying here. He was a highly worshipped and respected saint, known in the nearby areas. Once a handicapped saint named Gaurishanker, later known as Nepali Baba, came to this place. He had only four fingers in each of his hand and foot. He made a big temple by cutting stones, which is now known as Siddhnath.
Ganesh Temple
The area which is called Ratanada was named after a dog called Rata. About 150 years ago a teacher Radidas in a place called Gorunda saw a statue of Vinayakji in the hills of Ratanada. The statue is eight feet high and five feet wide.
Siddhnath Shiv temple is located between Takhat Sagar hills. On the road going from the right of filter house on Jodhpur-Chopasani Road, on crossing the stairs made by cutting rocks, one can reach Siddhnath temple. Many years ago it was an absolutely deserted place. And because of that, a hermit Veetragi Narain Swami started staying here. He was a highly worshipped and respected saint, known in the nearby areas. Once a handicapped saint named Gaurishanker, later known as Nepali Baba, came to this place. He had only four fingers in each of his hand and foot. He made a big temple by cutting stones, which is now known as Siddhnath.
Ganesh Temple
The area which is called Ratanada was named after a dog called Rata. About 150 years ago a teacher Radidas in a place called Gorunda saw a statue of Vinayakji in the hills of Ratanada. The statue is eight feet high and five feet wide.
places of jodhpur
Raj Ranchhodji Temple
It was made by queen Jadechi Rajkanwar after the death of her husband, king Jaswant Singh. Major Part of the temple is made of red sandstone, carved with beautiful filigree work. The heart of the temple has the statue of Ranchhodji made of black marble.It has green, yellow and blue glassess fixed on its main door.
Achal Nath Shivalaya
Achal Nath Shivalaya was constructed by Nanak Devi, queen of Rao Ganga. The construction was completed on 21st May 1531. A large water reservoir called Bawari was made near the Shivlinga which is known as Ganga Bawari. The Garbh Griha, Mandap and Kirtan Bhawan of the temple are made of carved Chhitar stone.
It was made by queen Jadechi Rajkanwar after the death of her husband, king Jaswant Singh. Major Part of the temple is made of red sandstone, carved with beautiful filigree work. The heart of the temple has the statue of Ranchhodji made of black marble.It has green, yellow and blue glassess fixed on its main door.
Achal Nath Shivalaya
Achal Nath Shivalaya was constructed by Nanak Devi, queen of Rao Ganga. The construction was completed on 21st May 1531. A large water reservoir called Bawari was made near the Shivlinga which is known as Ganga Bawari. The Garbh Griha, Mandap and Kirtan Bhawan of the temple are made of carved Chhitar stone.
places of jodhpur
Umed Garden
Umed garden covers an area of 82 acres. developed by Maharaja Umed Singh, it has green lawns, towering Ashoka trees, roses and seasonal flowers, museum, fountains, library and a zoo.In 1978 'Walk-in Aviary' was constructed there one could see different types of birds, local, African and Australian parrots, ducks, rabbits etc; in their natural environment. There are large cages for bears, foxes, deers, lions leopard etc. It is place frequented by children and adults with equal interest
Umed garden covers an area of 82 acres. developed by Maharaja Umed Singh, it has green lawns, towering Ashoka trees, roses and seasonal flowers, museum, fountains, library and a zoo.In 1978 'Walk-in Aviary' was constructed there one could see different types of birds, local, African and Australian parrots, ducks, rabbits etc; in their natural environment. There are large cages for bears, foxes, deers, lions leopard etc. It is place frequented by children and adults with equal interest
places of jodhpur
Rai-ka-Bag Palace
This palace is situated near Raika Bag palace railway station. It was constructed in 1663 by Hadiji, queen of king jaswant Singh-I. King Jaswant Singh-II liked this palace very much. He mostly stayed in the octagonal bunglow of this palace. In 1883 when Swami Dayanand Saraswati came to Jodhpur, his sermons were arranged for the public in the public ground of this palace. Even Jaswant Singh used to listen to Swami Dayanand in this palace only. Now income tax office functions in this palace.
This palace is situated near Raika Bag palace railway station. It was constructed in 1663 by Hadiji, queen of king jaswant Singh-I. King Jaswant Singh-II liked this palace very much. He mostly stayed in the octagonal bunglow of this palace. In 1883 when Swami Dayanand Saraswati came to Jodhpur, his sermons were arranged for the public in the public ground of this palace. Even Jaswant Singh used to listen to Swami Dayanand in this palace only. Now income tax office functions in this palace.
places of jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort
Situated on a steep hill, Mehrangarh fort is one of the largest forts in India. The beauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrates a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures. Mehrangarh Fort, spreading over 5 km on a perpendicular hill and looking down 125 meters, presents a majestic view on city horizon.
It was built on advice of a saint in 1459 to establish an impregnable head-quarter. This Fort is one of the best in India with its exquisitely latticed windows, carved panels, elaborately adorned windows and walls of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal. A collection of musical instruments, palanquins, royal costumes, furniture and the cannons on the fort's ramparts are well preserved.
Jaswant Thada
Close to the fort complex, lies Jaswant Thada. This 19th century royal cenotaph built in white marble in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and three other cenotaphs, stand nearby. The cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh holds the rare portraits of the rulers and Maharajas of Jodhpur. A visit inside the cenotaphs, with some villagers of the region, would bring forward the reverence they still hold for their brave kings
Umaid Bhawan Palace
The romantic looking Umaid Bhawan Palace was actually built with the purpose of giving employment to the people of Jodhpur during a long drawn famine. The royal family of Jodhpur still lives in a part of the palace.Another part of the palace houses a well-maintained museum, displaying an amazing array of items belonging to the Maharaja and the royal family - weapons, antiques & fascinating clocks, crockery and trophies
Government Museum
This museum has a rich collection of weapons, textiles, miniature portraits, local crafts and images of Jain Tirthankars. It is situated in the middle of the Umaid public gardens.
Situated on a steep hill, Mehrangarh fort is one of the largest forts in India. The beauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrates a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures. Mehrangarh Fort, spreading over 5 km on a perpendicular hill and looking down 125 meters, presents a majestic view on city horizon.
It was built on advice of a saint in 1459 to establish an impregnable head-quarter. This Fort is one of the best in India with its exquisitely latticed windows, carved panels, elaborately adorned windows and walls of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal. A collection of musical instruments, palanquins, royal costumes, furniture and the cannons on the fort's ramparts are well preserved.
Jaswant Thada
Close to the fort complex, lies Jaswant Thada. This 19th century royal cenotaph built in white marble in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and three other cenotaphs, stand nearby. The cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh holds the rare portraits of the rulers and Maharajas of Jodhpur. A visit inside the cenotaphs, with some villagers of the region, would bring forward the reverence they still hold for their brave kings
Umaid Bhawan Palace
The romantic looking Umaid Bhawan Palace was actually built with the purpose of giving employment to the people of Jodhpur during a long drawn famine. The royal family of Jodhpur still lives in a part of the palace.Another part of the palace houses a well-maintained museum, displaying an amazing array of items belonging to the Maharaja and the royal family - weapons, antiques & fascinating clocks, crockery and trophies
Government Museum
This museum has a rich collection of weapons, textiles, miniature portraits, local crafts and images of Jain Tirthankars. It is situated in the middle of the Umaid public gardens.
places of jodhpur
Jaswant Thada
Close to the fort complex, lies Jaswant Thada. This 19th century royal cenotaph built in white marble in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and three other cenotaphs, stand nearby. The cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh holds the rare portraits of the rulers and Maharajas of Jodhpur. A visit inside the cenotaphs, with some villagers of the region, would bring forward the reverence they still hold for their brave kings
Close to the fort complex, lies Jaswant Thada. This 19th century royal cenotaph built in white marble in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and three other cenotaphs, stand nearby. The cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh holds the rare portraits of the rulers and Maharajas of Jodhpur. A visit inside the cenotaphs, with some villagers of the region, would bring forward the reverence they still hold for their brave kings
places of jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort
Situated on a steep hill, Mehrangarh fort is one of the largest forts in India. The beauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrates a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures. Mehrangarh Fort, spreading over 5 km on a perpendicular hill and looking down 125 meters, presents a majestic view on city horizon.
It was built on advice of a saint in 1459 to establish an impregnable head-quarter. This Fort is one of the best in India with its exquisitely latticed windows, carved panels, elaborately adorned windows and walls of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal. A collection of musical instruments, palanquins, royal costumes, furniture and the cannons on the fort's ramparts are well preserved
Situated on a steep hill, Mehrangarh fort is one of the largest forts in India. The beauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrates a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures. Mehrangarh Fort, spreading over 5 km on a perpendicular hill and looking down 125 meters, presents a majestic view on city horizon.
It was built on advice of a saint in 1459 to establish an impregnable head-quarter. This Fort is one of the best in India with its exquisitely latticed windows, carved panels, elaborately adorned windows and walls of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal. A collection of musical instruments, palanquins, royal costumes, furniture and the cannons on the fort's ramparts are well preserved
Brief History Of Sikar
Sikar is a Historical City and at present district head quarter. Sikar district presents a good many facts for the tourists. Sikar is as much part of Shekhawati as Jhunjhunu. It was the biggest Thikana (Estate) of the Jaipur State. It lie on the highway 11 in the midway on route Bikaner to Agra . It is 116 Km away from the Jaipur, 320Km from Jodhpur 240 Km from Bikaner and 301 Km. from Delhi. Sikar was the capital town of the Tikana Sikar.
It is escorted all around by the highwalls comprising of seven gates. The primitive name of Sikar was ‘Beer Bhan Ka Bass’. In order of mitigate the enmity on account of the murder of Daulat Singh’s father Jaswant Singh , Bahadur Singh the raja of Khandela gifted the village to Daulat Singh . He laid down the foundation stone of the fort on the raised ground of this village. Lateron his son Shiv Singh who was very strong ,clever, courageous and bold made a magnificent fort on it. Shiv Singh was the most prominent Rao Raja of Sikar. He developed the village into a beautiful town. It is surrounded by a strong boundary wall . He was a religious man
It is escorted all around by the highwalls comprising of seven gates. The primitive name of Sikar was ‘Beer Bhan Ka Bass’. In order of mitigate the enmity on account of the murder of Daulat Singh’s father Jaswant Singh , Bahadur Singh the raja of Khandela gifted the village to Daulat Singh . He laid down the foundation stone of the fort on the raised ground of this village. Lateron his son Shiv Singh who was very strong ,clever, courageous and bold made a magnificent fort on it. Shiv Singh was the most prominent Rao Raja of Sikar. He developed the village into a beautiful town. It is surrounded by a strong boundary wall . He was a religious man
Administrative Setup In Sikar
The District Collector is the head of District administration. There is one Additional District Magistrate who helps Collector in discharging Administrative duties .
Sub Divisions
Six Sub Divisional Officers (SDO’s) work at the sub division to provide administrative support at the local level. Sikar district has Six sub-divisions which are :
Sikar
Fatehpur
Laxmangarh
Dantaramgarh
Shri Madhopur
Neem Ka Thana
Tehsils
There are Six tehsil headquarters and one additional Tehsil and two sub Tehsil in this district. Each one has a Tehsildar/Nayab Tehsildar as the administrative officer, who works in accordance with the land-record system to serve rural farmers and land-holders. The tehsils of the district are :
Sikar
Fatehpur
Laxmangarh
Dantaramgarh
Shri Madhopur
Neem Ka Thana
Additional Tehsil
Ramgarh (Shekhawati)
Sub Tehsil
Khandela
Palsana
A tehsil contains a number of "Patwar-Mandals", each of which has a 'Patwari' to serve the landholders and farmers at the village level.
Zila Parishad
Zila Parishad is an apex elected body which looks after and monitors the development works at the district level. Zila Pramukh is the head of the body. Chief Executive Officer and Additional Chief Executive Officer helps Zila Pramukh in Managing development works.
Blocks (Panchayat Samitis )
Sikar district is divided into 8 blocks (Panchayat Samitis) which are the developmental units. Each block has a BDO (Block Development Officer) who takes care of all development work at Block level.
Dhod
Piprali
Fatehpur
Laxmangarh
Dantaramgarh
Shri Madhopur
Khandela
Neem Ka Thana
Various development works and projects at the rural level (Gram Panchayat Level ) are run through Block offices. One Gram Sevak is appointed at each Gram Panchayat to keep record of the development works and to project required development works. "Gram Sabha" is organized on fixed intervals to discuss about development of villages.
Sub Divisions
Six Sub Divisional Officers (SDO’s) work at the sub division to provide administrative support at the local level. Sikar district has Six sub-divisions which are :
Sikar
Fatehpur
Laxmangarh
Dantaramgarh
Shri Madhopur
Neem Ka Thana
Tehsils
There are Six tehsil headquarters and one additional Tehsil and two sub Tehsil in this district. Each one has a Tehsildar/Nayab Tehsildar as the administrative officer, who works in accordance with the land-record system to serve rural farmers and land-holders. The tehsils of the district are :
Sikar
Fatehpur
Laxmangarh
Dantaramgarh
Shri Madhopur
Neem Ka Thana
Additional Tehsil
Ramgarh (Shekhawati)
Sub Tehsil
Khandela
Palsana
A tehsil contains a number of "Patwar-Mandals", each of which has a 'Patwari' to serve the landholders and farmers at the village level.
Zila Parishad
Zila Parishad is an apex elected body which looks after and monitors the development works at the district level. Zila Pramukh is the head of the body. Chief Executive Officer and Additional Chief Executive Officer helps Zila Pramukh in Managing development works.
Blocks (Panchayat Samitis )
Sikar district is divided into 8 blocks (Panchayat Samitis) which are the developmental units. Each block has a BDO (Block Development Officer) who takes care of all development work at Block level.
Dhod
Piprali
Fatehpur
Laxmangarh
Dantaramgarh
Shri Madhopur
Khandela
Neem Ka Thana
Various development works and projects at the rural level (Gram Panchayat Level ) are run through Block offices. One Gram Sevak is appointed at each Gram Panchayat to keep record of the development works and to project required development works. "Gram Sabha" is organized on fixed intervals to discuss about development of villages.
tourism of sikar
Sakambari :
Sakambari is also a place surrounded by mountains from three sides. It has a temple and seven water kunds; it is also a good picnic spot for the tourists due to its prime location and calm weather.
Distance : It is 60 kms from Sikar.
Sikar :
Sikar city is the place where a tourist can get everything which they wanted to see, it has famous temples, the fort of King Raw Raja, the exotic and beautiful gardens, the Sikar museum where they can see the ancient idols, statues and other articles of ancient importance that lay scattered all over Sikar district.
Other Important Places to see :
* Rewasa Dhaam : 4 kms from Sikar.
* Sanwali : 5 kms from Sikar.
* Salasar : 50 kms from Sikar.
* Ranisati : 67 kms from Sikar.
* Churu : 85 kms from Sikar.
Sakambari is also a place surrounded by mountains from three sides. It has a temple and seven water kunds; it is also a good picnic spot for the tourists due to its prime location and calm weather.
Distance : It is 60 kms from Sikar.
Sikar :
Sikar city is the place where a tourist can get everything which they wanted to see, it has famous temples, the fort of King Raw Raja, the exotic and beautiful gardens, the Sikar museum where they can see the ancient idols, statues and other articles of ancient importance that lay scattered all over Sikar district.
Other Important Places to see :
* Rewasa Dhaam : 4 kms from Sikar.
* Sanwali : 5 kms from Sikar.
* Salasar : 50 kms from Sikar.
* Ranisati : 67 kms from Sikar.
* Churu : 85 kms from Sikar.
tourism of sikar
Laxmangarh :
Laxmangarh is an exotic place for the tourists and the education searchers. This place is famous for its Fort situated in the heart of the city.It has large painting and handicraft works which zeals the heart to go to the past.Students from across the world come here in search of education.
Distance : City is 28 kms from Sikar.
Laxmangarh is an exotic place for the tourists and the education searchers. This place is famous for its Fort situated in the heart of the city.It has large painting and handicraft works which zeals the heart to go to the past.Students from across the world come here in search of education.
Distance : City is 28 kms from Sikar.
tourism of sikar
Jeenmata :
Jeenmata has a huge temple located in between the mountains, this temple is of Goddess "Jeenmata devi", lakhs of devotees visit here to watch its beauty and pay their prayers for their internal satisfaction.
Distance : Jeenmata is 30 kms from Sikar.
Jeenmata has a huge temple located in between the mountains, this temple is of Goddess "Jeenmata devi", lakhs of devotees visit here to watch its beauty and pay their prayers for their internal satisfaction.
Distance : Jeenmata is 30 kms from Sikar.
tourism of sikar
Harshgiri :
Here there is a famous harsh mountain which is of 3110 feet from ground level, On the top of the mountain there is God "Shiva temple" where lakhs of devotees visit every year. Thesun rising and setting gives a colourful and pleasant satisfactionto the visitors.
Distance : It is 14kms from Sikar
Here there is a famous harsh mountain which is of 3110 feet from ground level, On the top of the mountain there is God "Shiva temple" where lakhs of devotees visit every year. Thesun rising and setting gives a colourful and pleasant satisfactionto the visitors.
Distance : It is 14kms from Sikar
tourism of sikar
Khatusyamji :
It is the holy place where there is a famous temple of Lord Krishna, everywhere lakhs of people come here to watch the beauty of temple which is made up of white marble and glorious paintings. Here there is kund and garden, which makes this place a beautiful tourist spot.
Distance : It is 45 kms from Sikar.
It is the holy place where there is a famous temple of Lord Krishna, everywhere lakhs of people come here to watch the beauty of temple which is made up of white marble and glorious paintings. Here there is kund and garden, which makes this place a beautiful tourist spot.
Distance : It is 45 kms from Sikar.
SHEKHAWATI CIRCUIT
Sikar - Nawalgarh - Dundold - Mandawa - Fatehpur - Jhunjhunu
The entire region of Shekhawati is known for its exquisite frescoes and popularly called the "open art gallery"
Sikar - the walled city has lofty buildings, a massive fort and an array of splended 'haveli' and temples ornate with beautiful frescoes.
Places to visit - Lachhnamgarh, Temples of Gopinath, raghunath and Madan Mohan, madho Niwas, Bhiwani Haveli, Sodhani haveli, Harsh Nath Temple, Jeen Mata Temple, Kahtu Shyamji, Sakambhari and Lohayal.
Nawalgarh - has two old forts and a palace hotel with beautiful gardens and swirling fountains.
Places to visit - Aath (eight) Havelis Complex, Anandilal Poddar Haveli, Jodhraj Patodia Haveli, Bansidhar Bhagat Haveli, Chokhani Haveli, College Clock Tower, Parasrampura, Chirana Fort.
Dundlod is known for its and its fort and a palace that has been turned into a heritage hotel. Havelis of the Goenka family ornate with fine frescoes are a visual delight.
Mandawa dominates the town and it was one of the earliest heritage hotels in this area.
Places to visit - Chokhani Haveli, Saraf Haveli, Goenka Haveli, Ladia Haveli, Shiva Temple and Cenotaphs.
Fatehpur has some beautiful frescoes in the Indian as well as western styles. Khatu Shyamji is more famous for its temple of Shri Shyamji and draws devotees throughout the year. People walk several miles to offer homage at the temple from all over India.
Jhunjhunu - The capital of Shekhawati, it was founded by the Kayamkhani Nawabs in the mid 15th century A.D. and was later taken over by the Rajput ruler Sardul singh in 1730 A.D.
The entire region of Shekhawati is known for its exquisite frescoes and popularly called the "open art gallery"
Sikar - the walled city has lofty buildings, a massive fort and an array of splended 'haveli' and temples ornate with beautiful frescoes.
Places to visit - Lachhnamgarh, Temples of Gopinath, raghunath and Madan Mohan, madho Niwas, Bhiwani Haveli, Sodhani haveli, Harsh Nath Temple, Jeen Mata Temple, Kahtu Shyamji, Sakambhari and Lohayal.
Nawalgarh - has two old forts and a palace hotel with beautiful gardens and swirling fountains.
Places to visit - Aath (eight) Havelis Complex, Anandilal Poddar Haveli, Jodhraj Patodia Haveli, Bansidhar Bhagat Haveli, Chokhani Haveli, College Clock Tower, Parasrampura, Chirana Fort.
Dundlod is known for its and its fort and a palace that has been turned into a heritage hotel. Havelis of the Goenka family ornate with fine frescoes are a visual delight.
Mandawa dominates the town and it was one of the earliest heritage hotels in this area.
Places to visit - Chokhani Haveli, Saraf Haveli, Goenka Haveli, Ladia Haveli, Shiva Temple and Cenotaphs.
Fatehpur has some beautiful frescoes in the Indian as well as western styles. Khatu Shyamji is more famous for its temple of Shri Shyamji and draws devotees throughout the year. People walk several miles to offer homage at the temple from all over India.
Jhunjhunu - The capital of Shekhawati, it was founded by the Kayamkhani Nawabs in the mid 15th century A.D. and was later taken over by the Rajput ruler Sardul singh in 1730 A.D.
MERWARA - MARWAR CIRCUIT
Ajmer - Pushkar - Merta - Nagaur
Ajmer-The land of composite culture is wrapped in barren hills of the Aravali range. It is an amazing confluence of Hinduism and Islam.
Place to visit - Dargah Sharif, Akbar's Fort, Ana Sagar, Adhai-Din-Ka-Jhonpra, Taragarh Fort, The Museum. Nasiyan Jain Temple, Anted ki Mata, Foy Sagar.
Pushkar - 11 kms from Ajmer, along the picturesque Pushkar Lake lies the tranquil town with deep religious significance.
Places to visit - Brahma Temple, Savitri Temple, Man mahal and Bathing Ghats.
Merta - A fortified town near Pushkar, Merta abounds in ancient temples and mosques.
Places to visit - Mal Kot Fort, Jama masjid, Temple of Charbhuja, Dudasagar - the 'Lake of Duda, the Ashram of Mauni Baba and Chhatri of Saint Kishandasji.
Naguar - A fortified city amdist the Thar desert is one of the fascinating towns of Rajputs having a past as chivalrous as the inhabitants of yeasteryears. Nagaur is the venue of an annual Cattle Fair held in January-February. The town comes alive during the seven day festival, when cows, bullocks, horses, oxen and camels throng here accompained by turbanned sellers and eager buyers.
Ajmer-The land of composite culture is wrapped in barren hills of the Aravali range. It is an amazing confluence of Hinduism and Islam.
Place to visit - Dargah Sharif, Akbar's Fort, Ana Sagar, Adhai-Din-Ka-Jhonpra, Taragarh Fort, The Museum. Nasiyan Jain Temple, Anted ki Mata, Foy Sagar.
Pushkar - 11 kms from Ajmer, along the picturesque Pushkar Lake lies the tranquil town with deep religious significance.
Places to visit - Brahma Temple, Savitri Temple, Man mahal and Bathing Ghats.
Merta - A fortified town near Pushkar, Merta abounds in ancient temples and mosques.
Places to visit - Mal Kot Fort, Jama masjid, Temple of Charbhuja, Dudasagar - the 'Lake of Duda, the Ashram of Mauni Baba and Chhatri of Saint Kishandasji.
Naguar - A fortified city amdist the Thar desert is one of the fascinating towns of Rajputs having a past as chivalrous as the inhabitants of yeasteryears. Nagaur is the venue of an annual Cattle Fair held in January-February. The town comes alive during the seven day festival, when cows, bullocks, horses, oxen and camels throng here accompained by turbanned sellers and eager buyers.
DESERT CIRCUIT
Jodhpur - Barmer - Jaisalmer - Bikaner
Jodhpur, the fortified city standing sentinel to the great splendour and romance of Thar desert transports the visitor to the imperial times. Jodhpur is famous for handicrafts like tie-and-dye fabric, embroidered leather shoes or 'Juttis', lacquerware, 'Jodhpuri' baggy trousers, carpets, antiques and marble souvenirs from makrana.
Places to visit- Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, Mandore, Mahamandir Temple, kailana Lake, Balsamand Lake and Palace, Osian, Dhawa and Doli.
Barmer is major centre of wood carving and hand block printing. Especially famous are the geometric Ajrak prints in dark shades of Red and Blue - typical of Barmer.
Places to visit - Juna barmer, Kiradu, Khed, Jasol, Mahaveer Park, Neemari.
Jaiselmer - The golden fort rises from the heart of the Thar desert like a golden mirage.
Places to visit - Jain Temples, Gyan Bhandar Library, Nathmalji Ki Haveli, Patwaon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, Gadssar Lake, Amar Sagar, Bada Bagh, Ludrava, Wood Fossil Park, Sam Sand Dunes, Desert National Park.
Bikaner - A unique destination of the desert triangle is Bikaner. The royal fortified city with a timeless appeal is sheer beauty amidst the sand dunes.
Places to visit - Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Camel Breeding Farm, Bhandeshwar Jain Temples, Ganga Golden Jubilee Musuem, Devi Khund, Karni Mata Temple, Gajner Wildlife Sanctury, Kolayat, Kalibanga.
Jodhpur, the fortified city standing sentinel to the great splendour and romance of Thar desert transports the visitor to the imperial times. Jodhpur is famous for handicrafts like tie-and-dye fabric, embroidered leather shoes or 'Juttis', lacquerware, 'Jodhpuri' baggy trousers, carpets, antiques and marble souvenirs from makrana.
Places to visit- Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, Mandore, Mahamandir Temple, kailana Lake, Balsamand Lake and Palace, Osian, Dhawa and Doli.
Barmer is major centre of wood carving and hand block printing. Especially famous are the geometric Ajrak prints in dark shades of Red and Blue - typical of Barmer.
Places to visit - Juna barmer, Kiradu, Khed, Jasol, Mahaveer Park, Neemari.
Jaiselmer - The golden fort rises from the heart of the Thar desert like a golden mirage.
Places to visit - Jain Temples, Gyan Bhandar Library, Nathmalji Ki Haveli, Patwaon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, Gadssar Lake, Amar Sagar, Bada Bagh, Ludrava, Wood Fossil Park, Sam Sand Dunes, Desert National Park.
Bikaner - A unique destination of the desert triangle is Bikaner. The royal fortified city with a timeless appeal is sheer beauty amidst the sand dunes.
Places to visit - Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Camel Breeding Farm, Bhandeshwar Jain Temples, Ganga Golden Jubilee Musuem, Devi Khund, Karni Mata Temple, Gajner Wildlife Sanctury, Kolayat, Kalibanga.
GODWAR CIRCUIT
Mount Abu - Ranakpur - Jalore
Mount Abu is located in the south-western corner of Rajasthan and is Rajasthan's only hill station. It is also a major pilgrim centre. The Aravali range that cuts across Rajasthan reaches its greatest height at the Guru Shikhar. Interestingly, not many people are aware that this is also the highest point between the Nilgiris in the south and the Himalaya range upto North.
Sightseeing - Nakki lake, Gaumukh, Adhar Devi Temple, Sunset point, Gardens and Parks, Trevor's Tank, Achalgarh and Guru Shikhar.
Ranakpur-An important Jain pilgrim centre renowned for some marvellously carved Jain temples in sandstone. It is one of the five holy places of the Jain community, nestling in a tranquil valleydeep in the Aravalis.
Places to visit - Sun temple, Sadri, Desuri, Ghanerao, Muchhala Mahaveerji, Falna and Parshuram Mahadev.
Jalore- places to visit are Jalore fort, Mosque of Malik Shah, Sanchore, Bhinmal and Shivana
Mount Abu is located in the south-western corner of Rajasthan and is Rajasthan's only hill station. It is also a major pilgrim centre. The Aravali range that cuts across Rajasthan reaches its greatest height at the Guru Shikhar. Interestingly, not many people are aware that this is also the highest point between the Nilgiris in the south and the Himalaya range upto North.
Sightseeing - Nakki lake, Gaumukh, Adhar Devi Temple, Sunset point, Gardens and Parks, Trevor's Tank, Achalgarh and Guru Shikhar.
Ranakpur-An important Jain pilgrim centre renowned for some marvellously carved Jain temples in sandstone. It is one of the five holy places of the Jain community, nestling in a tranquil valleydeep in the Aravalis.
Places to visit - Sun temple, Sadri, Desuri, Ghanerao, Muchhala Mahaveerji, Falna and Parshuram Mahadev.
Jalore- places to visit are Jalore fort, Mosque of Malik Shah, Sanchore, Bhinmal and Shivana
VAGAD CIRCUIT
Dungarpur - Banswara
Dungarpur and Banswara are the two important cities of the Vagad region. These two districts are separated from each other by the magnificient Mahi river.
Sightseeing - Dungarpur is famous for its unique architectural style. The areas of interest here are Udai Bilas Palace and Juna Palace.
Banswara is another big town of Vagad to be visited for its natural beauty. The name Banswara, too has been derived from bans, or bamboo which once grew in abundance here. The lakes like the Anand Sagar and Dalab lake are worth to visit. Arthuna is famous for its 11th century temples, Talwara has ruins of some ancient temples that are famous for their carved idols, the temple of goddess Tripur Sundari is dedicated to Goddess Durga and has a beautiful idol of the goddess shaped out of black stone.
Dungarpur and Banswara are the two important cities of the Vagad region. These two districts are separated from each other by the magnificient Mahi river.
Sightseeing - Dungarpur is famous for its unique architectural style. The areas of interest here are Udai Bilas Palace and Juna Palace.
Banswara is another big town of Vagad to be visited for its natural beauty. The name Banswara, too has been derived from bans, or bamboo which once grew in abundance here. The lakes like the Anand Sagar and Dalab lake are worth to visit. Arthuna is famous for its 11th century temples, Talwara has ruins of some ancient temples that are famous for their carved idols, the temple of goddess Tripur Sundari is dedicated to Goddess Durga and has a beautiful idol of the goddess shaped out of black stone.
MEWAR CIRCUIT
Udaipur - Kumbhalgarh - Nathdwara - Chittaurgarh
Rajasthan's Mewar region encompasses dramatic hills, shimmering lakes, deep valleys and much more. It is a land rich in royal heritage, with romantic water places, historic hilltop forts and beautiful gardens.
Sightseeing- Udaipur is the jewel of Mewar - a kingdom ruled by the sisodia dynastyfor 1200 years. The foundation of the city has an interesting legend associated with it. According to it, Maharana Udai Singh, the founder, was hunting one day when he met a holy man meditating on a hill overlooking the LAke Pichhola. The hermit blessed the Maharana and advised him to build a palace at this favourably located sport with a fertile valley watered by the stream, a lake, an agreeable altitude and an amplitheatre of low mountains. Maharana followed the advise of the hermit and founded the city in 1559 A.D.
The City Palace is the focal point of the city and has several areas of interest like the Suraj Gokhada, Badi Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Bhim Vilas, Chini Chitrashala, Mor Chowk, The Zenana Mahal, Fateh Prakash and Darbar Hall. The 18th century Sahelion ki Bari, or the Garden of Maidens, is a popular tourist spot with its fountains and delicately carved kiosks and elephants in marble. Udaipur has other attractions like the Gulab Bagh, Doodh Talai, Jag Mandir, Moti Magri, Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal, Ahad and the Sajjangarh Palace.
Nathdwara is a renowned centre of pilgrimage for the devotees of Krishna and Vishnu a like. It is a town devoted totally to the Shrinathji temple and all activities in this little town revolve around the famous temple of Shrinathji.
Chittaurgarh - countless tales of this rugged fort and the battles fought here by its legendary heroes fill the pages of history books and its varous palaces and the temples do look out for rani Padmini's palace.
Travel to the west of Chittaugarh to reach the second most important bastion of Mewar - Kumbhalgarh covering an area of 12 sq. km this formidable fort
Rajasthan's Mewar region encompasses dramatic hills, shimmering lakes, deep valleys and much more. It is a land rich in royal heritage, with romantic water places, historic hilltop forts and beautiful gardens.
Sightseeing- Udaipur is the jewel of Mewar - a kingdom ruled by the sisodia dynastyfor 1200 years. The foundation of the city has an interesting legend associated with it. According to it, Maharana Udai Singh, the founder, was hunting one day when he met a holy man meditating on a hill overlooking the LAke Pichhola. The hermit blessed the Maharana and advised him to build a palace at this favourably located sport with a fertile valley watered by the stream, a lake, an agreeable altitude and an amplitheatre of low mountains. Maharana followed the advise of the hermit and founded the city in 1559 A.D.
The City Palace is the focal point of the city and has several areas of interest like the Suraj Gokhada, Badi Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Bhim Vilas, Chini Chitrashala, Mor Chowk, The Zenana Mahal, Fateh Prakash and Darbar Hall. The 18th century Sahelion ki Bari, or the Garden of Maidens, is a popular tourist spot with its fountains and delicately carved kiosks and elephants in marble. Udaipur has other attractions like the Gulab Bagh, Doodh Talai, Jag Mandir, Moti Magri, Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal, Ahad and the Sajjangarh Palace.
Nathdwara is a renowned centre of pilgrimage for the devotees of Krishna and Vishnu a like. It is a town devoted totally to the Shrinathji temple and all activities in this little town revolve around the famous temple of Shrinathji.
Chittaurgarh - countless tales of this rugged fort and the battles fought here by its legendary heroes fill the pages of history books and its varous palaces and the temples do look out for rani Padmini's palace.
Travel to the west of Chittaugarh to reach the second most important bastion of Mewar - Kumbhalgarh covering an area of 12 sq. km this formidable fort
HADOTI CIRCUIT
Bundi - Kota - Jhalawar - Baran
Towards the southeast is one of Rajasthan's least ecplored regions. It is a region that is full of great historical towns with a proud heritage dating back several centuries. Hadoti has a wealth of beautifully sculpted temples that seem frozen in time.
Sightseeing - Bundi, the first major destination in Hadoti to be reached from Jaipur, has a strong association with Rudyard Kipling, who drew inspiration from the beautiful town and its surrounding. The famous Chitra Shala with its exquisite pantings of the Bundi school that adorn the walls here. You can also visit the Phool Sagar Palace, Sukh Mahal, Shikar Burj and Sar Bagh. The stepwells of Bundi are works of art and a very beautiful example can be found in the centre of town - the Raniji ki Baodi.
The visiting palace in Kota are Jag mandir, the Brijraj Bhawan Palace and the Umaid Bhawan Palace. Kota is also famous for its sarees called Kotadoria. These cotton sarees are very popular as summer wear.
In Bara, the Badoli temples that date back to the 9th centuary, the 11th centuray Ramgarh Bhand deora temple, Sitabari, an ideal picnic spot with temples and seven tanks and the fort and mosque of Shahbad. The Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, once used as the royal hunting ground, today protects panther, spotted deer, wild boar and the bear.
Jhalawar is a typical small Hadoti town where the focal point is the fort itself. There are other places of interest like the wooden cottage called Rain Basera, the 7th centuray temples of Chandrabhaga, Sun temple at Jhalarapatan and the magnificient 8th century Gagron fort.
Towards the southeast is one of Rajasthan's least ecplored regions. It is a region that is full of great historical towns with a proud heritage dating back several centuries. Hadoti has a wealth of beautifully sculpted temples that seem frozen in time.
Sightseeing - Bundi, the first major destination in Hadoti to be reached from Jaipur, has a strong association with Rudyard Kipling, who drew inspiration from the beautiful town and its surrounding. The famous Chitra Shala with its exquisite pantings of the Bundi school that adorn the walls here. You can also visit the Phool Sagar Palace, Sukh Mahal, Shikar Burj and Sar Bagh. The stepwells of Bundi are works of art and a very beautiful example can be found in the centre of town - the Raniji ki Baodi.
The visiting palace in Kota are Jag mandir, the Brijraj Bhawan Palace and the Umaid Bhawan Palace. Kota is also famous for its sarees called Kotadoria. These cotton sarees are very popular as summer wear.
In Bara, the Badoli temples that date back to the 9th centuary, the 11th centuray Ramgarh Bhand deora temple, Sitabari, an ideal picnic spot with temples and seven tanks and the fort and mosque of Shahbad. The Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, once used as the royal hunting ground, today protects panther, spotted deer, wild boar and the bear.
Jhalawar is a typical small Hadoti town where the focal point is the fort itself. There are other places of interest like the wooden cottage called Rain Basera, the 7th centuray temples of Chandrabhaga, Sun temple at Jhalarapatan and the magnificient 8th century Gagron fort.
BRIJ - MEWAT CIRCUIT
Alwar - Sariska - Deeg - Bharatpur - Karauli - Ranthambhor
Some important site are the Bala Quila, City Palace, Moosi Maharani ki Chhatari, Vinay Vilas Palace, Vijay Mandir Palace, Moti Doongri. A little further on the road to Jaipur is Alwar's most popular picnic spot - Siliserh. To the west lie the protected forests of Sariska. Once the hunting grounds of the rulers of Alwar, the Sariska Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary today provides shelter to a large variety of the wildlife.
The palaces and gardens of DEEG are among the most beautiful in this region. Being close to Agra and Delhi, the Mughal influences were stronger here.
The fort of Bharatpur is the focal point of the town. It took sixty years to build and was known as LOHAGARH or the Iron Fort. Bharatpur is a small city but what makes it special is the KEOLA NATIONAL PARK. Once the hunting preserve of the princes of Bharatpur, today, it is ranked among the world's best bird sancturies.
The stone of Dholpur is famous throughout the country and has been used for the construction of many of a fort and palace not only in Rajasthan but in Agra, Delhi and other states as well. JHOR was the site of the oldest Mughal Garden built by Babar in 1527 and rediscovered in the 1970s, there is the famous Machkund where a religious fair every year sees a gathering of devotees seeking a cure for their skin ailments after a dip in the holy kund.
The other area of international importance is the tiger land of Ranthambhor. This is the ideal place in Rajasthan to see the Indian tiger in its natural habitat.
Some important site are the Bala Quila, City Palace, Moosi Maharani ki Chhatari, Vinay Vilas Palace, Vijay Mandir Palace, Moti Doongri. A little further on the road to Jaipur is Alwar's most popular picnic spot - Siliserh. To the west lie the protected forests of Sariska. Once the hunting grounds of the rulers of Alwar, the Sariska Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary today provides shelter to a large variety of the wildlife.
The palaces and gardens of DEEG are among the most beautiful in this region. Being close to Agra and Delhi, the Mughal influences were stronger here.
The fort of Bharatpur is the focal point of the town. It took sixty years to build and was known as LOHAGARH or the Iron Fort. Bharatpur is a small city but what makes it special is the KEOLA NATIONAL PARK. Once the hunting preserve of the princes of Bharatpur, today, it is ranked among the world's best bird sancturies.
The stone of Dholpur is famous throughout the country and has been used for the construction of many of a fort and palace not only in Rajasthan but in Agra, Delhi and other states as well. JHOR was the site of the oldest Mughal Garden built by Babar in 1527 and rediscovered in the 1970s, there is the famous Machkund where a religious fair every year sees a gathering of devotees seeking a cure for their skin ailments after a dip in the holy kund.
The other area of international importance is the tiger land of Ranthambhor. This is the ideal place in Rajasthan to see the Indian tiger in its natural habitat.
DHUNDHAR CIRCUIT
Jaipur - Samode - Ramagarh - Dausa
Jaipur, the Pink City and Rajasthan's colourful capital, is full of things to see and do. DIWAN-I-AAM, GANESH POL, SHEESH MAHAL, SUKH NIWAS, JAIMANDIR, MAN SINGH PALACE AND SHILA DEVI temple are some of the places that you should not miss.
When you enter the city, the first major monument that greets you is the spectaclar HAWA MAHAL, or the Palace of Winds that provides some excellent views of the streets from its fifth storey. Located just behind it are JANTAR MANTAR, the unique observatory built by the founder of Jaipur - Sawai Jai Singh and the CITY PALACE with its fabulous musuem that displays some of the most amazing treasures held by the Jaipur royal family.
Forty kilometres to the north is the popular SAMODE with its fairytale palace that has some of the most exquisite mirror work and frescoes. To the east is the resort of RAMGARH with its huge artifical lake and cottage where you can spend a quiet weekend.
Jaipur, the Pink City and Rajasthan's colourful capital, is full of things to see and do. DIWAN-I-AAM, GANESH POL, SHEESH MAHAL, SUKH NIWAS, JAIMANDIR, MAN SINGH PALACE AND SHILA DEVI temple are some of the places that you should not miss.
When you enter the city, the first major monument that greets you is the spectaclar HAWA MAHAL, or the Palace of Winds that provides some excellent views of the streets from its fifth storey. Located just behind it are JANTAR MANTAR, the unique observatory built by the founder of Jaipur - Sawai Jai Singh and the CITY PALACE with its fabulous musuem that displays some of the most amazing treasures held by the Jaipur royal family.
Forty kilometres to the north is the popular SAMODE with its fairytale palace that has some of the most exquisite mirror work and frescoes. To the east is the resort of RAMGARH with its huge artifical lake and cottage where you can spend a quiet weekend.
Agriculture of Alwar
Alwar has an important place in Agriculture production in Rajasthan. Total geographical area of the district is 7,82,897 hectares which is about 2.5 percent of the State. In the year 2001-2002 the net cultivated area is 5,09,107 hecters from which about 83 percent area viz. - 4,26,204 is irrigated and remaining 17 percent area viz. - 82,903 is unirrigated. Double cropped area is 2,72,508 hectares of which 32,230 hecter (12%) area is irrigated and remaining 2,40,278 hecter (88%) area is unirrigated. Thus, the total cropped area of the district is 7,81,615 hecters. In Kharif season Bajra, Maize, Jowar, Karif pulses, Arhar, Sesamum, Cotton, Guar etc. are sown in about 3,29,088 hectare (42%) and in Rabi season Wheat, Barley, Gram, Mustard, Taramira, Rabi pulses etc. are sown in about 4,52,527 hectare (58%). The main source of irrigation are wells and Tube Wells. By 26064 Tube Wells about 192861 hectare area is being irrigated and by 57196 Wells about 265169 hectares area is irrigated. By other sources like canals, tanks about 404 hectares area is irrigated. About 35470 electric motors and 66502 Diesel pump sets are being used for Irrigation purposes. The normal rainfall for the district is 657.3 mm. The average rainfall in last ten years in the district is 724 mm. The rainfall distribution in the district is uneven and scattered which resulted some times flood problems and some time draught position which affect the Agriculture production as well as cropping pattern in Kharif & Rabi season. Thus, the Agriculture in the district by and large depends on rainfall distribution. The average rainfall in the year 2002 upto sep. is 220 mm.
King of Alwar
Maharao Raja Viney Singh died in 1857 and was succeeded by his son Sheodan Singh (1857-1874). He was then a boy of twelve. He at once fell under the influence of the Mohammedan Dewans of Delhi. Their proceedings excited an insurrection of the Rajputs in 1858, in which several of the Dewan's followers were killed and the ministers themselves were expelled from the State. Captain Nixon, the Political agent of Bharatpur, was at once despatched to Alwar who formed a Council of Regency. A Panchayat was formed with three members to administer the State but it could not succeed. Captain Impey came to Alwar as the next Political Agent in November, 1858. His tenure of that office continued till the end of 1863, during which he succeeded in re-organising every branch of the administartion. The system of fixed cash assessment was introduced. The annual revenue of the State was fixed at Rs. 14,29,425 and work was started on a three years settlement for the State. After the completion of this settlement, Major Impey started work on the ten year settlement in the State and the annual revenue was fixed at Rs. 17,19,875
King of Alwar
Maharao Raja Viney Singh (1815-1857) suppressed the social anarchy and was to a great extent, successful in stabilising the general conditions in the State. It was in his time that the Alwar State administration began to take shape. According to the Imperial Gazetter of India, " The Government had previously been carried on without any system. But with the aid of certain Musalmans introduced from Delhi and appointed ministers in 1838, great changes were made. The land revenue began to be collected in cash instead of kind and civil and criminal courts were established."
King of Alwar
The next ruler Maharao Raja Bakhtawar Singh(1791-1815) also devoted himself to the work of extension and consolidation of the terriotory of the State. He was successful in integrating the pargannahs of Ismailpur and Mandawar and the talukas of Darbarpur, Rutai, Nimrana, Mandhan, Beejawar and Kakoma in the Alwar State. Maharao Raja Bakhtawar Singh rendered valuable services to Lord Lake, during the latter's campaign against Marathas, in the battle of Laswari, in Alwar territory when the State troopes assisted him in finally breaking the Marathas and Jat powers.
History of Alwar
The Alwar state may be said to have been formed as a separate, independent state when Rao Pratap Singh, its founder, first raised his standard over the Alwar Fort on November 25th 1775.During his rule the then districts of Thanagazi, Rajgarh, Malakhera, Ajabgharh, Baldeogarh, Kankwari, Alwar, Ramgarh and Lachhmangarh, and areas around Behror and Bansur, were finally integrated to form the State. As the State was being consolidated, naturally, no definite administrative machinery could have come into being. At the time, the states revenue was between six to seven lakhs of rupees per annum.
History of Alwar
The Alwar state may be said to have been formed as a separate, independent state when Rao Pratap Singh, its founder, first raised his standard over the Alwar Fort on November 25th 1775.During his rule the then districts of Thanagazi, Rajgarh, Malakhera, Ajabgharh, Baldeogarh, Kankwari, Alwar, Ramgarh and Lachhmangarh, and areas around Behror and Bansur, were finally integrated to form the State. As the State was being consolidated, naturally, no definite administrative machinery could have come into being. At the time, the states revenue was between six to seven lakhs of rupees per annum.
Location of Alwar
The district is situated in the north-east of Rajasthan between 27o4' and 28o4' north Latitudes and 76o7' and 77o13' east Longitude. Its greatest length from south to north is about 137 K.M. and greatest breadth from east to west about 110 K.M.
It is bounded on the north and north-east by Gurgaon (of Haryana) and Bharatpur district and on the north-west by Mahendragarh district of Haryana, on the south-west by Jaipur and on the south by Sawai- Madhopur and Jaipur districts.
It is bounded on the north and north-east by Gurgaon (of Haryana) and Bharatpur district and on the north-west by Mahendragarh district of Haryana, on the south-west by Jaipur and on the south by Sawai- Madhopur and Jaipur districts.
Origin of Name (Alwar)
Origin of Name
The district is known after its headquarters town of Alwar. There are many theories about the derivation of the name Alwar. Cunningham holds that the city derived its name from the Salva tribe and was originally Salwapur, then, Salwar, Halawar and eventually Alwar.According to another school it was known as Aravalpur or the city of Aravali (A hill system dividing Rajasthan roughly into third and two-thirds).Some others hold that city is named after Alaval Khan Mewati. A research conducted during the reign of Maharaja Jey Singh of Alwar revealed that Maharaja Alaghraj, second son of Maharaja Kakil of Amer (old seat of Jaipur state) ruled the area in the eleventh century and his territory extended upto the present city of Alwar. He founded the city of Alpur in 1106 Vikrami samvat(1049 A.D.) after his own name which eventually became Alwar. It was formerly spelt as Ulwar but in the reign of Jey Singh the spelling was changed to Alwar.
The district is known after its headquarters town of Alwar. There are many theories about the derivation of the name Alwar. Cunningham holds that the city derived its name from the Salva tribe and was originally Salwapur, then, Salwar, Halawar and eventually Alwar.According to another school it was known as Aravalpur or the city of Aravali (A hill system dividing Rajasthan roughly into third and two-thirds).Some others hold that city is named after Alaval Khan Mewati. A research conducted during the reign of Maharaja Jey Singh of Alwar revealed that Maharaja Alaghraj, second son of Maharaja Kakil of Amer (old seat of Jaipur state) ruled the area in the eleventh century and his territory extended upto the present city of Alwar. He founded the city of Alpur in 1106 Vikrami samvat(1049 A.D.) after his own name which eventually became Alwar. It was formerly spelt as Ulwar but in the reign of Jey Singh the spelling was changed to Alwar.
Alwar fort
The Alwar fort, built on a hill, about 1960 feet above the sea level, stands majestically 1000 feet above the city of Alwar. The fort was built by Hasan Khan Mewati in 1550 A.D. It passed from the Mughals, to the Marathas, to the Jats, till it was finally captured by the Kachhwaha Rajputs. The fort, from nort to south is about 5 kms. long and is about 1.5 kms. wide. There are six entrances to the fort which are, Chand Pol, Suraj Pal (named after Raja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur), Jai Pl, Kishan Pol, Andheri Gae and Laxman Pol. It is said that PratapSingh, the founder of Alwar state used Laxman Pol for entering the fort forth first time. Ametalled road in th past connected the city with Laman Pol.
Ghanerao
Ghanerao
Is a small town famous for its castle now converted into a hotel. The castle's highlight in the pavilion in the central court, where the musicians would perform. Also near the castle are the cenotaphs of former rulers. Mahavir Temple, a Jain Temple is also one of the highlights of the town.
Is a small town famous for its castle now converted into a hotel. The castle's highlight in the pavilion in the central court, where the musicians would perform. Also near the castle are the cenotaphs of former rulers. Mahavir Temple, a Jain Temple is also one of the highlights of the town.
Ranakpur
Ranakpur
Beautiful sculptured Jain temples mark the glory of this renowned place. Marked as one of the five holy places for the Jain community, these were created in the 15 the century. During the reign of Rana Kumbha and are enclosed within a wall. The central Chaumukha [four faced temple] is dedicated to Adinathji the temple is an astounding creation with 29 halls and 1,444 pillars all distinctly carved and no two being alike is a amazing evidence of the genius sense of architecture that enhances the charm of the place. Every temple has this conceivable surface carved with equal delicacy.
The ambience of Ranakpur is mainly highlighted by the location and the almost divine architecture, giving the same hue as its counter part - the great Dilwara Temple's. in Mt-Abu. Facing the main temple are the unique temples -Parasvanath - Neminath with exquisite figures carving similar to that Khujaraho sculptures. Another temple worth visiting is the nearby 'Sun Temple' dedicated to the 'Sun God' (Surya-the master of all the planets and the provider of light to the whole universe) adorned with polygonal wall, richly embellished with the carvings of warriors, horses and solar (Nakshatras, grahs') deities riding splendid 'chariots' the vehicle of the 'Sun God'- which accordingly to the Hindu Mythology is the God of prosperity and a shining destiny in this world. Many throng this shrine for these blessings. Overall Ranakpur is known as ' The tranquil pilgrimage town'. For the buffs a ride to the outskirts like ' Sadari' - 'Desuri'- 'Ghanerao'- 'Narhai', serves the purpose of their satisfaction.
Beautiful sculptured Jain temples mark the glory of this renowned place. Marked as one of the five holy places for the Jain community, these were created in the 15 the century. During the reign of Rana Kumbha and are enclosed within a wall. The central Chaumukha [four faced temple] is dedicated to Adinathji the temple is an astounding creation with 29 halls and 1,444 pillars all distinctly carved and no two being alike is a amazing evidence of the genius sense of architecture that enhances the charm of the place. Every temple has this conceivable surface carved with equal delicacy.
The ambience of Ranakpur is mainly highlighted by the location and the almost divine architecture, giving the same hue as its counter part - the great Dilwara Temple's. in Mt-Abu. Facing the main temple are the unique temples -Parasvanath - Neminath with exquisite figures carving similar to that Khujaraho sculptures. Another temple worth visiting is the nearby 'Sun Temple' dedicated to the 'Sun God' (Surya-the master of all the planets and the provider of light to the whole universe) adorned with polygonal wall, richly embellished with the carvings of warriors, horses and solar (Nakshatras, grahs') deities riding splendid 'chariots' the vehicle of the 'Sun God'- which accordingly to the Hindu Mythology is the God of prosperity and a shining destiny in this world. Many throng this shrine for these blessings. Overall Ranakpur is known as ' The tranquil pilgrimage town'. For the buffs a ride to the outskirts like ' Sadari' - 'Desuri'- 'Ghanerao'- 'Narhai', serves the purpose of their satisfaction.
Haldighati
Haldighati
The extensive terra firma, towards the south west of Nathdwara, this historical site witnessed the great legendry battle fought between Maharana Pratap and the Mughal Emperor -Akbar in 1576 AD. See Your AD Here The vast terrain that was supposedly covered with blood (the sand turned Red in colour) evokes a chill in the spine till date and envelopes a feel of nostalgia, this was the place where the heroic Chetak the gallant charger with his dedicated loyalty towards his chivalrous master (the Maharana Pratap) proved his worth by co-operating till his last breath.
A 'Chhatri' with delicate white marble is dedicated both to the indomitable hero and his loyal charger, is note worthy. A jeep drive to this place is rather interesting
The extensive terra firma, towards the south west of Nathdwara, this historical site witnessed the great legendry battle fought between Maharana Pratap and the Mughal Emperor -Akbar in 1576 AD. See Your AD Here The vast terrain that was supposedly covered with blood (the sand turned Red in colour) evokes a chill in the spine till date and envelopes a feel of nostalgia, this was the place where the heroic Chetak the gallant charger with his dedicated loyalty towards his chivalrous master (the Maharana Pratap) proved his worth by co-operating till his last breath.
A 'Chhatri' with delicate white marble is dedicated both to the indomitable hero and his loyal charger, is note worthy. A jeep drive to this place is rather interesting
Kumbhalgarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort
Located 64 kms north of Udaipur in the wilderness, Kumbhalgarh is the second most important citadel after Chittorgarh in the Mewar region. Cradled in the Aravali Ranges the fort was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha. Because of its inaccessibility and hostile topography the fort had remained un-conquered.
It also served the rulers of Mewar as a refuge in times of strife. The fort also served as refuge to the baby king Udai of Mewar. It is also of sentimental significance as it is the birthplace of Mewar's legendary King Maharana Partap. The fort is self-contained and has within its amalgam almost everything to withstand a long siege.
The fort fell only once that too to the combined armies of Mughal and of Amber for scarcity of drinking water. Many magnificent palaces an array of temples built by the Mauryas of which the most picturesque place is the Badal Mahal or the palace of the clouds.
The fort also offers a superb birds view of the surroundings. The fort's thick wall stretches some 36 kms and is wide enough to take eight horses abreast. Maharana Fateh Singh renovated the fort in the 19th century. The fort's large compound has very interesting ruins and the walk around it can be very rewarding.
Located 64 kms north of Udaipur in the wilderness, Kumbhalgarh is the second most important citadel after Chittorgarh in the Mewar region. Cradled in the Aravali Ranges the fort was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha. Because of its inaccessibility and hostile topography the fort had remained un-conquered.
It also served the rulers of Mewar as a refuge in times of strife. The fort also served as refuge to the baby king Udai of Mewar. It is also of sentimental significance as it is the birthplace of Mewar's legendary King Maharana Partap. The fort is self-contained and has within its amalgam almost everything to withstand a long siege.
The fort fell only once that too to the combined armies of Mughal and of Amber for scarcity of drinking water. Many magnificent palaces an array of temples built by the Mauryas of which the most picturesque place is the Badal Mahal or the palace of the clouds.
The fort also offers a superb birds view of the surroundings. The fort's thick wall stretches some 36 kms and is wide enough to take eight horses abreast. Maharana Fateh Singh renovated the fort in the 19th century. The fort's large compound has very interesting ruins and the walk around it can be very rewarding.
Lakes in Udaipur
Rajsamand Lake
On the way to Kumbhalgarh lies their royal lake with a magnificent dam created in the 17th century offers a spectacular views of the sunset adorned by beautiful Torans [arches] and Chhatris And number of attractive pavilions. Stunning sculpture and Sanskrit verses are vividly inscribed in store a small counterpart of Nathdwara.
On the way to Kumbhalgarh lies their royal lake with a magnificent dam created in the 17th century offers a spectacular views of the sunset adorned by beautiful Torans [arches] and Chhatris And number of attractive pavilions. Stunning sculpture and Sanskrit verses are vividly inscribed in store a small counterpart of Nathdwara.
Lakes in Udaipur
Jaisamand Lake
Maharana Jai Sigh had built this picturesque artificial lake. It the second largest lake in Asia. The lake has elegant step leading to the water and marble Chhatri (cenotaphs) on its bank and a small Shiv temple marks the grace of the lake. On either side are the palaces built for the king favourite queens. The local tribe for Bhils still inhabit the island.
Maharana Jai Sigh had built this picturesque artificial lake. It the second largest lake in Asia. The lake has elegant step leading to the water and marble Chhatri (cenotaphs) on its bank and a small Shiv temple marks the grace of the lake. On either side are the palaces built for the king favourite queens. The local tribe for Bhils still inhabit the island.
Lakes in Udaipur
Fateh Sagar Lake
This delightful lake, bordered by hills and woodland was constructed by Maharana jai Singh to the north of Lake Pichola. It is an artificial lake dug up in 1678, reconstructed by Maharana Fateh Singh A canal links the two, via Swaroop Sagar and Rang Sagar Lakes. The beautiful Nehru Island as well as an islet bearing a solar observatory rises from the lake.
Lake Fateh Sagar is a medium-sized perennial storage reservoir constructed in the year 1678 A. D. by the rulers of former Mewar State. Although primarily constructed for irrigational purpose, this water body has lately formed a second major source of drinking water for the city of Udaipur. The main feeder canal of the lake comes from Madar tank situated at a higher altitude about 15 km from Udaipur City. Lake Fateh Sagar is also connected to the adjoining Lake Pichhola through a canal having gates. This (former) lake has somewhat pear-like shape and is surrounded by hills except on its eastern side where a straight masonry dam of about 800 m length is located. The lake lies on the northwest of main Udaipur city.
This delightful lake, bordered by hills and woodland was constructed by Maharana jai Singh to the north of Lake Pichola. It is an artificial lake dug up in 1678, reconstructed by Maharana Fateh Singh A canal links the two, via Swaroop Sagar and Rang Sagar Lakes. The beautiful Nehru Island as well as an islet bearing a solar observatory rises from the lake.
Lake Fateh Sagar is a medium-sized perennial storage reservoir constructed in the year 1678 A. D. by the rulers of former Mewar State. Although primarily constructed for irrigational purpose, this water body has lately formed a second major source of drinking water for the city of Udaipur. The main feeder canal of the lake comes from Madar tank situated at a higher altitude about 15 km from Udaipur City. Lake Fateh Sagar is also connected to the adjoining Lake Pichhola through a canal having gates. This (former) lake has somewhat pear-like shape and is surrounded by hills except on its eastern side where a straight masonry dam of about 800 m length is located. The lake lies on the northwest of main Udaipur city.
Lakes in Udaipur
Lake Pichola
Pichola Lake derives its name from Pichola Village was submerged and Maharana Udai Singh enlarged the lake after he founded the city. He built a masonry dam known as Badipol and lake is now 4 km long and 3 km wide. This picturesque lake encloses the Jag Niwas Island and the Jag Mandir. And, the City Palace extends along its eastern banks
Pichola Lake derives its name from Pichola Village was submerged and Maharana Udai Singh enlarged the lake after he founded the city. He built a masonry dam known as Badipol and lake is now 4 km long and 3 km wide. This picturesque lake encloses the Jag Niwas Island and the Jag Mandir. And, the City Palace extends along its eastern banks
Museums in Udaipur
Vintage Collection of Classic Car Museum
The collection within the grounds of the Garden Hotel comprises a variety of classic and interestingly rare transportation vehicles; some stately and vintage like Cadalec, Chevalate, Morais etc., while the others are sleek and fast.
The Maharanas of Udaipur once possessed and used these regal splendours of automobiles as their luxuries but most of the other models are gradually being added to the collection ,since it provides a unique aristocratic safari for the exclusive guests.
The collection within the grounds of the Garden Hotel comprises a variety of classic and interestingly rare transportation vehicles; some stately and vintage like Cadalec, Chevalate, Morais etc., while the others are sleek and fast.
The Maharanas of Udaipur once possessed and used these regal splendours of automobiles as their luxuries but most of the other models are gradually being added to the collection ,since it provides a unique aristocratic safari for the exclusive guests.
Museums in Udaipur
Ahar Museum
Located about 2 kms east of Udaipur is an impressive cluster of cenotaphs of the Maharanas of Mewar. There are about nineteen cenotaphs of Maharanas cremated there.
The most striking cenotaph is that Maharana Amar Singh, who reigned from 1597 to 1620. Nearby is also Ahar Museum, where on display is limited but very rare earthen pottery. Some sculptures and other archaeological finds. Some pieces date back to 1700 BC and a tenth century metal figure of Buddha is a special attraction.
Located about 2 kms east of Udaipur is an impressive cluster of cenotaphs of the Maharanas of Mewar. There are about nineteen cenotaphs of Maharanas cremated there.
The most striking cenotaph is that Maharana Amar Singh, who reigned from 1597 to 1620. Nearby is also Ahar Museum, where on display is limited but very rare earthen pottery. Some sculptures and other archaeological finds. Some pieces date back to 1700 BC and a tenth century metal figure of Buddha is a special attraction.
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