Fair and Festivals of Pune

Festivals in Pune are an integral part of people’s life. They portray the rich cultural heritage of the city. Pune the land of diverse culture and traditions, celebrates many traditional, religious, state and national festivals.

Ganesh Chaturthi
This festival in honor of the extremely generous God of wisdom, the elephant – headed Ganesha, is celebrated with great vigor and enthusiasm. The son of Shiva and Parvati is widely admired and loved and is reflected in the grandeur of the festival. It is celebrated on a large scale in Maharashtra, The festival was given momentum by Bal Gangadhar Tilak to spread the message of the freedom struggle and to challenge the British who had banned public assemblies. Lord Ganesha is worshipped with immense passion and devotion for the 10 days that the festival lasts. This 10 day Hindu festival in August / September reaches a climax when large idols of Ganesha are immersed in the sea.

Diwali
The festival of lights, Diwali or Deepawali symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the lifting of the spiritual darkness that envelops the soul. The festival commemorates Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom, Adyodhya after completing his 14 years of exile. The word Deepawali which means rows of lighted diyas (earthern lamps), brings a glow to the humblest home or the grandest houses. The whole country displays a twinkling glow of the oil lamps, inviting the Goddess of Prosperity, Lakshmi, to enter their homes and bring them good fortune, happiness and wealth. The festive occasion also marks the beginning of the Hindu new year.

Navratri
The Navaratri (nine nights) festival which marks the onset of autumn is celebrated in different ways all over the country. It is a festival of worship, dance and music and is celebrated from the first to ninth date of Ashwin Shukla Paksha of the Hindu Calendar for the worship of Goddess Durga. The festival signifies Rama’s victory over Ravana in North and Central India. The last day, Vijay Dashmi is considered very auspicious to start new venture both in business and academics. People celebrate Navratri by dancing to the traditional garba and dandia dances. The presiding deity of the celebration is Goddess Amba and every evening a special Arti is offered to her to invoke her blessings.

Eid
Eid is derived from the Arabic word ‘oud’ or ‘the return’ to signify, well, the return of Eid each year. The festival is significant as much for its timing as for its religious implications. It is celebrated after the fasting month of Ramzan (the ninth month of the Muslim year), on the first day of the Shavval month of the Hijri year (Muslim year). It is believed that the Koran was revealed to Prophet Mohammed in the month of Ramzan. ‘Ramz’ means to burn, and fasting is considered to burn down ones sins. It is a joyous occasion. It celebrates discipline and kindness and strives to establish a semblance of equality in our crazy chaotic cosmos. Eid is also an occasion for family reunions.

Holi
Holi, the festival of colors is celebrated on the day after the full moon in early March every year. This festival is not only celebrated in Pune but all over the country with equal joy. This festival marks the end of winter season and the beginning of the spring season. It is also a celebration of the triumph of good over evil. All participate in this festival and play with colors. Dancing, singing and merry making are an integral part of Holi. Holi celebration begins with lighting up of bonfire on the Holi eve. People rub ‘gulal’ and ‘abeer’ on each others’ faces and cheer up saying, “bura na maano Holi hai”. Holi also gives a wonderful chance to send blessings and love to dear ones wrapped in a special Holi gift.

Baisakhi
Baisakhi, marks the beginning of New Year, particularly in the northern part of India. Considered a holy day, the devout celebrate the Baisakhi with a dip in the holy rivers just around the break of dawn. Baisakhi is celebrated on April 13th. For on this day, they commence cutting their harvest. The fields can be seen full of nature’s bounty. Dressed in their typical folk attire, both men and women, celebrate the day with Bhangra and Gidda. Sweets are distributed, old enmities are forgiven and life is full of joy, merriment and everyone seems to belong.

India Adventure Travel Tours

India is the land of cultural diversity. It is the largest pluralistic society in the world. The cultural and linguistic variation among 29 states in India is what makes India different from other countries. Irrespective of caste and variations in language, Indians remain united. Thanks to cultural and traditional values that preserve the Indians in their motherland. India is located in the southern part of the Asian continent. India Sector wise is the 7th largest country in the world, and is a democratic country with the second largest population.

The Indian economy is the world ’s fourth – largest in terms of purchasing power. The economy is ranked 12th in the exchange rate on the market. The Indian economy has progressed rapidly in the last 10 years.

The country boasts an extensive culture (the main reason behind the large shipment of travel in India) because the country had increased Main culture over the pages of history due to the large number of ‘invaders and immigrants. The invaders and immigrants have bought their own culture at a time to live the country and influenced the indigenous culture significantly. The country of India is the traveler’s paradise. The trip to India is an experience that is bound to be extremely rich in memorable moments. The great legacy of the nation is one of the main attractions. The various monuments and architecture of the country are a major attraction for visitors is bound to be linked charm. Historic monuments such as Qutub Minar and the Taj Mahal are just two examples of the beauty of the country. The very fact that Taj Mahal is among the seven wonders of the world alongside other fabulous structures is a clear indicator of architectural masterpieces that the country of India possesses.

The continent secondary India provides various opportunities for people loving adventure travel. People who engage in adventure travel to the mainland India are insured for the period of their lives. The country has various ranges of mountains, high cliffs, rivers and seas for all kinds of adventure sports like rock climbing, paragliding and carry water white.

The trip to India is perhaps the most competitive location that takes care of the entire trip passengers in the country. A person may make reservations for hotels in India by location and can get the full itinerary for the trip. The hotels in India helping the person to book hotels throughout the country.

The journey of India offers the best package and also handles vacation adventure in India. The site also takes care of people who are all touring India. An entire tour of India is probably the best deal for the normal person because it allows travelers to get to know the culture and Indian travel in India makes possible.
India is home to internationally famous places. The Taj Mahal is a symbol of tourism in India. He also declared architectural excellence rules mogul in India. The tours of India will not be complete without package tours adventure in it. The peaks of the Himalayas Kanchenjunga irresistible and attract the attention of passengers with backpacks. Use your vacation adventure full with a jungle safari, a journey of lake, fishing, skiing and paragliding, etc.. Wildlife in India offers a vast resource of research materials for botanists and zoologists with the rarest species of flora and fauna. The architectural monuments grêlent the saga of the great emperors who ordered India in different dynasties.

India Celebrating 61st Anniversary of Independence

It was the patriotic heart, love for freedom and undying devotion for our beloved motherland that even after ruling us for more than two hundred years we attained freedom from the British Colonial rule.    
 

Significance
It was on 15th August 1947, when India won freedom from the British Raj and thus was the beginning of a new era where India arose as a free nation. The Independence Day commemorates the birth of the world’s biggest democracy, India and this day holds a very unique significance in the Indian history.

 The Indian Independence struggle had many chapters from the Revolt of 1857 to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, from the Non-cooperation movement to the Salt Satyagraha. India went through a long journey that had numerous national and regional drives and the two main weapons used were truth and non-violence.

Our Independence struggle involved wide spectrum of political organisations of India, their philosophies, and movements which were united only for one noble cause; ending the British Colonial Authority and thrive as an independent nation.

This day is also an occasion to rejoice our freedom and to pay homage to all those martyrs who sacrificed their lives for this noble cause. The Independence Day fills the heart of every Indian with nationalism, solidarity and fidelity.

Celebrations Galore

The Independence Day is celebrated with full fervour, ardent devotion and immense patriotism throughout the country. Schools and colleges celebrate this sanctimonious day with cultural activities, drills and flag hoisting. The Prime Minister hoists the Tricolour at the Red Fort followed by the National Anthem, at Delhi. He also addresses the nation, highlighting the achievements of the country during the past year and gives a call for further development. With this he also pays tribute to leaders of the freedom struggle, and bows to their contributions in freedom struggle.

A very interesting activity that has been associated with the Independence Day is the kite flying activity, which is said to be a symbol of freedom and independence.

Feel the flavour of patriotism spread all around and be a part of the Independence Day celebrations 2008 with the National Portal of India. Display your pride of being Indian and forget about the cynicism. Download the specially designed ‘My India My Pride’ badge from our Portal and wear it on this Independence Day. Also share the pride and glory of India with friends/ family/ loved ones by sending them e-cards filled with patriotic sentiments though the e-greetings section of the National Portal.

You can view the live Webcasts of Independence Day Celebrations, President’s Address to the Nation through india.gov.in that will be uploaded exclusively for you. You can also access the text of the speech by the Prime Minister and also view the list of various Independence Day Awards given for different distinguished services. You can also download the National Flag, National Anthem and National Song of India to rejoice the occasion.

Rishikesh round the year pilgrimage destination

Rishikesh, the ‘place of sages’ is an eminent spiritual town on the banks of River Ganga and is surrounded by the Shivalik range of the Himalayas on three sides. It is the starting point for the Char Dham pilgrimage of the Hindus, wherein pilgrims go to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath to seek spiritual salvation.

Proclaimed in the ’60s by The Beatles as the ‘Yoga capital of the world’, Rishikesh surged into eminence when the cult group met their guru,  Maharishi  Mahesh  Yogi  here. Not  only  an  ideal  india travel destination
for pilgrims, Rishikesh is the place to head for those who want to delve deeper into meditation – Yoga and aspects of Hinduism. Aside from its wonderful scenery and the numerous pilgrimage sites it offers, Rishikesh is famous as a popular adventure sport destination for river rafting, trekking, rock climbing and hiking holidays.

 According to Hindu mythology, the sage Raibhya Rishi did severe penance and, as a reward, God appeared to him in the form of Hrishikesh. Rishikesh also represents the site where Lord Vishnu vanquished the demon Madhu. The place is known as the Tapo Bhumi or the place for meditation of the Gods. Tapovan, on the other bank of the Ganges, houses a temple dediated to Lakshmana. It is believed that Lakshmana, the younger brother of Lord Rama, carried out penance here. The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is believed to be the site where Lord Shiva had drunk the venom that came out during the churning of the ocean.
 
Places to visit
The Lakshmanan Jhula (a suspended iron bridge) was built in 1939 and has been a major tourist attraction. Legend has it that Lakshman crossed the River Ganga on jute ropes built on the very place where this new iron bridge stands. A site offering wonderful views, during the monsoon season, the water level of the river increases considerably along with the speed of the current. Close to the Lakshman Jhula is another suspended bridge called the Ram Jhula.

Bharat Mandir, the oldest temple of Rishikesh, was built by Adi Shankaracharya. The inner sanctum of the temple has an idol of Lord Vishnu carved out of a single saligram (marble). Statues, coins, pots and other items of historical importance have also been excavated from the premises  of   the  temple. Known   for  its   substantial  work  on  Hinduism, Parmarth Niketan organizes marvelous Ganga Aarti and Hawan on the Parmarth Ghat every evening. When here, watch out for one of the 13 most important Goddesses of Shivalik range, Kunja Puri, which also offers a scenic view of the sunrise and sunset on the Greater Himalayan Peaks.

The Triveni Ghat is the main ghat in the town, which witnesses pilgrims taking a holy dip during the day and the Ganga Aarti during the evening. Close to the Triveni Ghat is Rishikund, a pond reflecting the temple of Raghunath, dedicated to Lord Rama and Sita.

The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is the place where he drank the venom which had oozed out when the ocean was being churned for amrit (potion for immortality).

The Shivanand Ashram, situated close to the Lakshman Jhula conducts lectures, discussion and meditation and yoga classes daily. In case you plan to stay for a longer time, contact the Secretary at least a month in advance.

Festivals
The International Yoga Week is held here for a week every February, which sees masters in the art of Yoga performances from all around the world in Rishikesh to teach a variety of Yogic disciplines. Discourses by spiritual masters and scholars are also provided and cultural programs are held.

Travel Tours To Poonch Fort Jammu Kashmir

Poonch Fort is a symbol of the heritage of Poonch district. This 248 year old building had seen number of ups and downs, still it remains intact. However during the earthquake of 2005, Poonch Fort was badly damaged its northern and western part constructed during rule (1760-1787 AD) and Sikh rule ( 1819-1845 AD) in Poonch was totally collapsed. The frontal portion had also developed cracks in such a way that it had not remained habitable and out of 21 offices located in the Fort building 19 were shifted from the Fort. This building stands on a mound which is 100 mt distance from South Western Corner of the city. It has been built at such place from where we can gauge and overlook the whole valley of Poonch From Pir Pass (Panchal range) in the east to Toli Pir in the west. The Fort complex has been constructed on 21 kanal piece of land. The Fort building is comprises of 69 rooms, these include four big halls, one varanda, Tosha Khana, Goal Ghar ( office chambers of Poonchi Raja’s) Temple, Mosque and Gurdwara. There are four entrances in the Fort. The main entrance is on the southern side which leads towards the old structure Constructed by Muslim rule Raja Rustam Khan (1760-87 A.D.) The second entrance is on the northern corner of frontal block which goes towards Darbar Hall and Goal Ghar. There are two more entrance on the north-western side. The south-western block has already got collapsed but the walls and basic structure is intact.

Initially the fort was constructed for the defence of the city. Lateron it was converted into the residence as well as Darbar of Raja’s.That is why the looking of its frontal block is like a palae. This fort remained centre of power for centuries during the rule of Poonchi Raja’s, when this region was having a status of Poonch State. At present, the Fort was being used for housing the offices of various departments and it was just like a Mini Secretarial, The building is still dominating the entire Poonch town. This structure is possibly the only of its kind in J&K State of India.

In 1996 AD, the Mughal Emperor Akbar had nominated Saraj-ud-din Rathore of village Kahuta as the ruler and Poonch with the rule title of Raja Poonch, Raja Saraj-ud-din shifted from native village to Poonch city and declared this town as the capital of his Kingdom. At that time. Poonch was very small town with 275 huts. Raja Saraj-ud-Din was residing in a Kacha Fort which was constructed on a mound of Khorinar ridge (a mohalla of Poonch town). This Kacha Fort was known a Duppli in Pahari language. Raja Saraj-ud-Din and his son Raja Fateh Mohd Khan could not thought of a bigf fort as they remained busy in subsiding and diffusing the internal disturbances.

In 1701 AD Abdul Razak Khan became the Raja of Poonch. He decided to construct a strong Fort for the fortification of Poonch town and laid the foundation of this Fort but Raja could not construct it during his tenure due to invasion of Kashmiri rulers on Poonch.

In 1760 AD, Ali Gohar Khan the younger son of Raja Abdul Razak Khan became ruler of Poonch with the title of Raja Rustam Khan. He was very fond of art and architecture. He started the main construction of Poonch Fort. The legend goes that the work of main entry to the fort was not getting stabilized till the only surviving teenager son of a Brahmin widow from Surankot area was embedded in the main wall as per the vision of the Raja in a dream. A commemorative temple of this unknown martyr is still available near the southern entrance of the Fort bear testimony to this legend. After sacrificing the boy in the wall, the main construction of the Fort was started and it was completed by Raja Rustam Khan in 1779 AD Raja Rustam Khan shifted in the Fort and started conducting his Darbar. The architectural style of the block constructed by Raja Rustam Khan has distinct Mughal influences.At present 80% portion of this block has got collapsed.

In 1819 AD, Poonch state was captured by Maharaja Ranjit Singh when he was on the way to conquer Kashmir. His Governors had converted Poonch Fort into the garrison of Khalsa forces. In 1937 AD a local rebellion Shamas Khan Maldyal revolted against the regime of Lahore Darbar and declared himself the Raja of Poonch. At that time apart from Poonch town, there were 12 other small Forts (Dupplies) in Poonch . Shamas Khan captured all these Forts. Then assaulted on the Poonch Fort with a big Force. Mian Bishna a Khalsa General with a contingent of Punjabi soldiers was stationed in the fort at that time. He successfully defended the Fort from the assault of Shamas Khan,only became he was taking shelter of this strong Fort.

From 1827 to 1850 AD Poonch was a Jagir of Raja Dhayan Singh the Prime Minister of Raja Ranjit Singh. This Illaqa was directly governed by the Khalsa Darbar of Lahore. No doubt that this was the most disturbing period in the history of Poonch even then Punjabi Governors have done a commendable work not only in repairing of the original Fort but also they added one big block on the north eastern side of this fort which bears the influence of Sikh architectural style. More than 60 percent part of this block have been collapsed and damaged badly during the earth quake of 2005.

In the light of the verdict of Court of Mentgumry Lorence of Lahore in 1948 Mian Moti Singh a third son of Raja Dhayan Singh became the first Dogra ruler of Poonch state in 1852. At the time of his arrival at Poonch, the condition of Fort was going from bad to worse. Initially he passed orders of repairing and renovation of the fort. After sometime in 1872, Raja shifted in the fort along with his family and Darbar. Then he ordered for redesigning of the fort of the fort on western style. He engaged a European architect who designed the frontal block of the Fort. In this way, the frontal block was added by Raja Moti Singh in the Fort during his tenure from 1852-1892 AD. The work was so superb that the appearance of the Fort changed into a palace.

Upto 1942 AD Poonch Fort was used as a Secretariat by Poonchi Rajas. At that time Fort Complex was consisted of Baghi Khan, Hansli Kanal, Bagh Deodi and Fountain garden. After the happenings of 1947, the Fort building remained un- renovated for a long period. With passage of Travel time, 70% part of southern block constructed during Muslim period and 40% part of northern block built by Sikh Governors got collapsed.No doubt that frontal block was intact but that too was declared unsafe during 1988 by R&B experts and a new construction after demolishing the original Fort was proposed. Luckily Ashok Jaitly, the then Financial Commissioner Planning and Development Department paid a visit to Poonch in 1989 and after inspecting Fort building he rejected proposal of demolishing the Fort and asked the experts to prepare a proposal of renovation of this historical monument of Poonch. By this way, Rs 30.00 lacs were sanctioned for the renovation of the Fort during 1990. But the renovation work was geared up only during 1990-1991 on the initiative of P. Dhar Chakarbarty, District Development Commissioner Poonch. Upto the end the March 1991, 52 out of 79 rooms were renovated by the department and the Construction work in frontal and northern block have been completed but the renovation of southern block constructed during Muslim period was not taken in hand. Presently when the reconstruction of Fort building have again been started from 2007-2008 it is expected that this Fort again attain its original glory and glamour in the future.

Seeds of one’s fate Prarabdha or Destiny

A man had been walking a long distance in the hot sun, and he felt tired. He had not yet seen any shade giving tree on the road side. Finally, he saw a big tree with spreading branches which cast ample shade. With a sense of relief, he went to it and sat under the tree to rest for a while. When he felt rested a thought arose in his mind. How nice it would be if someone now gave me a sumptuous meal Wonder of wonders! A plate, filled with an array of delectable dishes, appeared before him. Surprised but delighted, the man consumed them all to his heart’s content. The heavy meal induced in him a desire for a comfortable sleep. Presto! He saw a bed with a soft mattress and plush pillows by his side. Gratified by the sight, he jumped into bed. However the long and strenuous journey on foot that day was making his legs ache. He thought, unitentionally, ”How nice it would be if some ‘apsara’ comes to massage my legs ”A third wonder now ! A heavenly beauty appeared and smilingly began working on his legs.

While he was thus enjoying all the comforts a thought arose in his wandering mind for no reason “What if a hungry tiger suddenly appears from nowhere, jumps on me and eats me up ?” No sooner had this thought formulated itself than the ‘apsara’ vanished and a tiger pounced on him, killing him and making a good meal of him.

The traveller actually happened to be under a ‘kalpavriksha’, a wish-fulfilling tree mentioned in our holy scriptures. We too are, in a sense, living under a ‘kalpavriksha’ which is nothing but our own minds. The mind has the strength to fulfil our ’sankalpa’ (desires, expectations or imaginations) one way or the other, if not instantly atleast in time. The wonderful power of the human mind was clearly seen, experienced and confirmed by the ancient rishis (seers). Later generations of ‘Mahatmas’ and Gurus have also confirmed the importance of the power of the human mind. They also gave great importance to the purification of thoughts. Human thoughts, good or bad, strongly determine the happiness or misery of the whole world. The advanced state of the whole world today is only the net result of the preponderance of good and healthy thoughts in the human mind as a whole. From the crude methods of the ancient people of making fire, to the present ways of producing atomic energy; from the old bullock carts to the present outer-space vehicles, all such scientific developments have come from wonderfully developed and refined human thoughts.

Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda writes in his Autobiography of a Yogi in one of the chapters of the said book that my Guru was a peerless interpreter of the scriptures. Many of my happiest memories are centred in his discourses. But his jewelled thoughts were not cast into the ashes of heedlessness. In one of the discourses, Sri Sri Yukteswar pointed out to his disciple that he is not here. As usual, he was keeping relentless track of his attention. “Guru Ji” My tone was a protest, I have not stirred; my eyelids have not moved; I can repeat each word you have uttered.

“Nevertheless you were not fully with me. Your objection forces me to remark that in your mental background you were creating three institutions. One was a sylvan retreat on a plain, another on a hilltop, still another by the ocean.” In the exact sequence Sri Sri Yukteswar had indicated, these visions took ultimate form. First came my founding of a Boy’s Yoga School on a plain in Ranchi in India. Then an American Headquarters on a Los Angeles hill top and then a hermitage in Encinitas California overlooking the vast Pacific.Thoughts are special powers in subtle form. When they manifest as ‘karma’ (activity) we can recognise their power. Karmas form habits. Habits make our character. Character determines the final result success or failure.

Thoughts that arise in the mind spread everywhere like electromagnetic waves, remaining in and around our subtle bodies, producing similar results in us and others also. If we entertain thoughts of hatred, vengeance, anger, fear and sorrow, they will produce harmful effects, first for us and then for others. Conversely, if we foster good thoughts of love, co-operation, mutual help and charity, they will benefit us and many others also. In short, thoughts are the` seeds of our fate.

Preksha Meditation the art of concentration

The emotion should be so unverifiable that neither do not put out of box no matter whom of phase with you and nor cannot you of phase with no matter whom. Ni cannot you work with others, nor can no matter whom work of other with you. If the emotions are not controlled, how a person can carry out her work effectively? Establish such good relations which you can work with others, and others can work with you fortunately. If this occurs, there will be no problem. The kingdom of the emotions is very vast. Let us concentrate on the essential points. The first point is development of the power of the tolerance. How much a man can it tolerate? A person who tolerates, is an effective person in the true direction, and only it can take others with him. In the same way, a person who is intolerant work of can neither with others nor can take others with him.

Amarnath Yatra

The essential condition to work the effectiveness is tolerance. One which cannot tolerate his/her colleagues and subordinates cannot be an effective person. The tolerance is an essential condition for us. In the camp of meditation of Preksha, contemplation to develop the power of tolerance is practised. By contemplation and the autosuggestions, we can develop the power of the tolerance. Some have naturally the power to tolerate, but others which do not have this can develop it by the practice. It can not be possible to develop the tolerance during a ten-day-camp, but with the constant practice of contemplation during two to three months, there is a possibility that its tolerance will increase. After six months of practice, its desire to develop the tolerance will be certainly accomplished.

Bhagwan Mahaveer took release. How such a detachment and dispassion did occur in him? For six months before his release, prince Vardhaman had practised the contemplation of the transience. This feature thus matured. A person who practises the contemplation of the transience regularly will find her infatuation towards the material world falling and her interest towards developing asceticism. Qualities can be increased by the practice. The ground of our internal world is very fertile. If the suitable practice is made, the quality of the tolerance develops thereafter. A person who learned how to tolerate is, in the true, qualified direction. A person should know when and what with speaking. If the workman junior is in an aggressive mood, it is the duty of elder to tolerate it. Instead of that, if it beats a retreat, which worsens simply the situation. To this moment, silence will conclude it the successfully. If it is not tolerant, but reacts immediately, the situation will worsen.

Without practice, there is no progress. The transformation takes place only by the practice, and not by only maintenance. Without change, there cannot be any effectiveness with work. To improve the functioning effectiveness, the power of the tolerance must be increased. Let us develop the power of the tolerance. India Travel

The question arises – the How us concentrate do? And how we increase our? a-acute of ness In the meditation of Preksha, the art of the concentration is developed by the practice of the most effective technique of the long breathing. This technique is very important for the increasing concentration, but it should be followed methodically. After the care of a camp we must measure how much our concentration increased, how long we can remain on a thought. While one is present the camp after camp, with the persistent practice of the long breathing, concentration should be measured. It should not be a practical sans.valor, as this man that the rectified tons of corn but could not find anything left for him – because it did not note the dog to eat corn on other side. The man adopted the attitude, I rectified as much corn as I necessary. What is the need for me to rise and check, each now and then, where the ground corn is? going It would have has a constant process of inspection there, obtaining a eye-sight of the bird and a retrospection. We must look at again with see what are the results. Our attempt should have been profitable. The only attempts are a sans.valor until the result comes in front of us. Up to what point did our concentration and power to remain on a thought increase? It should not be like what occurs in the political field, where for the period of the election, the politicians make the empty promises, which when they come to actuate, they will remove poverty.

We had listened to this during more than 50 years, but poverty always exists. The reason of this is lack of concentration. If we take a problem with the time and we concentrate on top during little month, we are sure to reach a solution. Today we try to solve a problem, tomorrow we test another problem and then, still another. If we keep this manner above, moving from one problem to another, we will never reach a solution.

Maharaja Gulab Singh Dogra Ruler

Maharaja Gulab Singh was born in 1792. After his birth, Mian Kishore Singh father of the child, invited the priest for asking name to be kept of the newly born child. The priest after preparing child’s birth Kundli plucked a flower of rose from the nearby house and gave it to the hands of the child. The priest then told that from today this child’s name would be Gulab Singh. And time may come, when he would become a great warrior/Raja or Maharaja of some of the State. Mian Kishore Singh was the grand son of Surat Singh, the younger brother of Raja Ranjit Dev of Jammu. Thus Gulab Singh was scion of the ruling family of Jammu.

He left his home at the age of 17 in search of the job of soldier. He proposed to go to Kabul for joining the army of Shah Shuja but his friends refused to go beyond the Indus. Hence in 1810, Gulab Singh joined the service of Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab, whose kingdom spread upto Afghanistan. He was employed as cavalryman on daily wages at the rate of Rs 2 to 3 day. His other brothers Mian Dhian Singh and Mian Suchet Singh also became employees of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Gulab Singh got opportunity to show his worth only when Maharaja Ranjit Singh fought for the possession of Attock in 1813. His reward, however, came in 1814 when he played a big role in protecting the detachment of the Maharaja’s forces being destroyed in the course of latter’s first unsuccessful attempt at the conquest of Kashmir. He then became jagirdar of Kharoti and Babool, and commander of 22 horses. In 1815, he did yeoman’s service in reducing garh Damula. He fought in Jullundar Doab and in return to for that Maharaja gave him Jagirs at Lala-Chabara (Sialkote) and Ramgarh near Vijaypur (Samba). Another distinction was then conferred upon the right to raise his own company of 200 horsemen. Soon followed more opportunities for Gulab Singh to make his mark as soldier and get into Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s good grace as well as Gulab Singh’s part in expeditions of Maharaja’s Ranjit Singh in 1818-1819 to Multan, Kashmir, Mankera and Dera Ghazi Khan.

When Gulab Singh became Raja of Jammu : Maharaja Ranjit Singh was so happy with the bravery of Gulab Singh as soldier that he granted him, his father and brothers jointly a Jagir not only in Jammu but also small states of Patti Bohri Band raltha, Chenani and Kishtwar. The father of Gulab Singh was further honoured with the title of Raja.

After small skirmishes Gulab Singh met Mian Dido on Trikuta hills and shot him dead. Gulab Singh also fought with Raja Khan of Rajouri and took him prisioner and sent to Lahore. By 1821, Gulab Singh’s power came to be established over vast area in Jammu. As a bad luck in 1822 Raja Kishore Singh died. Maharaja Ranjit Singh, therefore, himself came to Akhnoor and in June 17, 1822 granted the Raj of Jammu to Gulab Singh and Bandratha to Suchet Singh who renamed it Ram Nagar. ‘‘Raj Tilak on Gulab Singh’s forehead was put on his own heads. Thus, after 13 years of absence from Jammu during 1809, he returned here as ruler of Jammu.

Conquering of Tibet : After conquering of Ladakh and Baltistan Zorawar Singh went forward for conquering Tibet. He left Leh with an army of about 5000 Dogras and Ladakhis in May 1841. After overcoming the Tibetan resistance at Rudok and Tashigong he reached Minsar near Mansarovar lake in holy Kailash mountain. He further advanced to Taklkote which was just about 24 Km from borders of Nepal and Kumaon and built a fort there. The British were unhappy over Zorawar Singh’s advance as they dreaded with a direct link between Lahore kingdom and that of Nepal. They pressed on Lahore Darbar to compel Gulab Singh to recall Zorawar Singh and vacate the Tibetan territory occupied by him. Zorawar Singh, however, did not care for these moves. But due to an intense cold weather and long distance from base camp at Leh forced him to stop further advance. On 11th to 12th December, 1841 a battle was fought between Dogra’s and Lahasa’s forces at a height of about 4800 m. The battle proved disastrous for Zorawar Singh who died. Zorawar Singh’s death was a grave blow to Gulab Singh’s prestige where people rose in rebellion aided and abetted by advancing Tibetan army. New Army was then sent from Jammu under the command of Dewan Hari Chand which suppressed the rebellion and threw back the Tibetan army. Thereupon, the Tibetan Govt approached for peace. A peace treaty was then signed during September 1842 by Dewan Hari Chand/Wazir Ramu on behalf of Gulab Singh and Kalon Surkhan/Depon Pishy on behalf of Dalai Lama. By this treaty traditional boundary between Ladakh and Tibet was recognised by both the sides since olden times. The village and area around Minsar & Mansarovar lake was, however, retained by Govt of Jammu.

The modern History of Jammu and Kashmir : In 1839 to 1845, many events took mplace in Lahore. When Maharaja Ranjit Singh passed away in 1839, there broke out a factional fighting among the chiefs due to instability in his kingdom. This led to assisination of many chiefs. During 1841 both Dhian Singh and Suchet Singh were murdered. Maharaja Sher Singh was too assisinated.

After Sher Singh’s death, in 1843 Dalip Singh a lad of about 6 yeas old and grandson of Ranjit Singh was crowned as Maharaja under the regency of his mother Rani Jindan (Rani Chand Kaur). This marked the rise of Sardar Jawhar Singh, Rani’s brother and rivalry between him and her paramour, Raja Lal Singh. In February 1845, Rani sent force to invade Jammu. Invasion, however, failed owing mainly to the diplomatic skill of Gulab Singh. Meanwhile, Punjab kingdom split into two parts the plains under the Sikhs and hills under Gulab Singh. The fall of the kingdom was due to the death of Sardar Jawahar Singh at the hands of the Khalsa army in September 1845. Rani Jindan then swore to evenge his death. This followed the first Anglo-Sikh war.

The Anglo-Sikh war was not in the interest of Punjab Kingdom. Gulab Singh not only advised the Ravi against but himself did not participate. After the defeat of the Sikh army at Subraon in February 1846 peace process was followed. Raja Gulab Singh was then given ful power to negotiate on behalf of Lahore Darbar. There was an understanding with the British that Darbar would surrender to them all territories lying the Sutlej and the Beas and also pay 15 lakh pounds (Rs 1.5 crore) as war indemnity. This treaty of Lahore was signed on March 9, 1846.

The then Prime Minister, Lal Singh however offered to the British the hill territories of Lahore kingdom including Jammu and Kashmir in lieu of indemnity.

His idea was to deprive Gulab Singh of his territory and give the British the option either holding of Kashmir or to accept a reduced indemnity. This offer, however, suited Gulab Singh. He also agreed to pay indemnity to an extent of 7.5 lakh pounds (Rs 75 lakhs) to the British. Hence on March 16, 1846 a treaty was signed between the British Govt and Gulab Singh to give him independent charge of Jammu and Kashmi. Gulab Singh, however, struggled a lot to occupy the valley of Kashmir from the then Governor of Kashmir, Sheikh Imamuddin, appointed by Lahore Darbar. He was secretly instructed by Lal Singh not to hand over the possession of Kashmir valley to Gulab Singh. Despite stiff resistance by the Governor to Gulab Singh’s army, Gulab Singh obained the possession of the Kashmir valley. Thus, it was Maharaja Gulab Singh who integrated Jammu with Kashmir and Ladakh, into one political unit, which since then is known as the modern State of Jammu and Kashmir.

In fact, the only real acquisition of Gulab Singh as a result of the above said treaty was Kashmir. This is the reason why some of his critics that he purchased Kashmir from the British after paying an amount of Rs 75 lakhs. This is, however, not correct as the British were not in a position at that time to dislodge Gulab Singh and to occupy his territory to their empire.

Osteoarthrits in Ayurveda India

Traditional system of medicine of India, Ayurveda is not only a medical system but a way of life which aims at holistic management of health and diseases. Ayurveda is divided into eight disciplines i.e Kaya Chikitsa (Internal medicine), Shalya (surgery), Shalakaya (ENT), Bhoot vidya (Psychiatry) Kaumar-bhritya (Pediatrics), Agad tantra (Toxicology), Rasayana (Geriatrics or Jara chikitsa) and Vajikarna (Eugenics and aphrodisiacs).

Thus, Rasayana Chikitsa or Geriatrics or Jara Chikitsa is one among eight branches of Asthanga Ayurveda, which not only deals with diseases and conditions associated with old age but is also used as a preventive method against unhealthy body changes. Rasayana Chikitsa enhances immune system, arrests ageing, gives lusture to skin provides energy and nourishes body (Sapta dhatus).
People between age 65-85 yrs are rising throughout the globe. It is believed that by year 2030, world population of people between 60-85 yrs of age will increase by 66% so quite a good number of populations will come under graying population. Many advances in scientific medicine have ensured longevity in the life span in Indian men and women, traced post independence. Indian aged population is currently the second largest in the world. This group of population is exposed to number of diseases one among them is osteoarthritis i.e Sandhigatavata.

Osteoarthritis or Osteoarthosis is mainly related to aging but metabolic, genetic, chemical and mechanical factors can also lead to it. Its symptoms mainly appear in middle age and almost everyone has them by the age of 70 yrs. This disease is caused by loss of cartilage of the joints which is a protein substance that serves as a cushion between bones of the joints and when it degenerates, the bone next to it becomes inflamed leading to total loss of cushion between the bones of the joints and this causes friction between the bones leading to pain and there is limitation of joint mobility. Also, there is hypertrophy of the bone at articular margins.

Osteoarthritis is one of the major problems for which the treatment is almost limited with focus on pain reduction. Osteoarthritis of knee is more prevalent in our population which interferes not only with the physical activity but entire quality of life. Features of Osteoarthritis seem to be similar with Sandhigatavata described in Ayurveda. The cause of Sandhigatavata in Ayurveda is attributed to improper diet, lifestyle and oldage leading to degeneration of body elements, aggravation of Vata Dosa and reduction in Shleshaka Kapha, a slimy substance present in the joint.

Ayurveda Holidays

RISK FACTORS
- Obesity is the most powerful risk factor for Osteoarthritis of knees as it increases the mechanical stress on cartilage.
- Faulty posture also predisposes to this disease.
- Repeated trauma or surgery to the joint structures.
- Abnormal joints at birth (congenital abnormalities)
- Gout
- Diabetes and other hormone disorders like growth hormone disorders.
SYMPTOMS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS
- Deep aching pain that gets worse after exercise or putting weight on it and is relieved by rest.
-grating of the joint with motion
- joint swelling
-limited movement.

TREATMENT
Treatment of Osteoarthritis is aimed at
1. Reducing pain
2. Maintaining mobility
3. and minimizing disability
In modern medicine although many drugs have been reported to be effective but are not free from severe side effects. In patients where the aggressive medical management has failed, surgical treatment is advised.

TREATMENT IN AYURVEDA
The disease Sandhigata vata like Vatik disorders is difficult to treat and its crippling effect on patients with many emotional problems. If treated early the symptomatic involvement may occur and progress of disease is lessened.

Different preventive and palliative treatment and procedures like Panchakarma are advocated for management of Osteoarthritis by Ayurvedic physicians by considering the prakriti, age, tolerability etc of the patients, stage of the disease and the season etc. As the disease is considered to be caused to a pathological condition which is caused by aggravated Vata dosa hence its treatment measured inlcude to ensure the state of equilibrium of vitiated Vata by Vatahara and Rasayana drugs.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Healthy diet
Proper exercise
Maintenance of weight
Proper posture during day to day activities
Beware of energy draining foods like fast foods, canned, frozen packaged left over and old foods, foods laced with preservatives chemicals and additives.

Navratri is an auspicious occasion for Vaishnavas

The festival of Navratri is celebrated all over India with full devotion, joy and passion. It is a festival which is celebrated with pure happiness and is one of the most auspicious occasions for Hindus. Navaratri is celebrated twice a year- First in the month of Chaitra (March- April) and secondly in the month of Ashwani (September – October). Chaitra Navratri commences with the start of the Hindu New Year “VIKRAM SAMBAT” i.e the 1st day of the month of Chaitra.

Navratri continues for nine days. These nine days are devoted to goddess Maa Durga, known as Shakti. People worship her by referring as Mata Sherawali as the first appearance of her sitting on a tiger. It is believed that goddess Durga exists in many forms and is worshipped during this nine-day long festival. These various forms of the Goddess are: Uma, Gauri, Parvati, Jagatmata, Kali, Chandi, Bhairavi, Ambika etc.

For these nine days during Navratri people keep fasts, go to temples, and sing devotional prayers. The temples are beautifully decorated with lights and flowers. In homes people place the images of goddess Durga and worship her by singing devotional songs and bhajans. Most of the Hindus go to the temples to worship Devi Durga.

People also like to have jagran, chooki, in the Navratri time. On the eighth and the ninth day people like to end Navratri by calling small girls to their home and giving them delicious items to eat. This is also called as kanya poojan.

According to legends, Navratri and Ram Navami are celebrated for the birth of Lord Rama and his victory over Ravana. As per the Hindu calendar, the 9th tithi in Chaitra Sukla is observed as Ram Navami to commemorate the birth of Lord Rama.

The worship of Lord Rama dates back to the Pre-Christian era. About keeping strict fast on Ram Navmi is mentioned in the Kalika Purana. The Vrata of Ram Navami is considered as one of the five most sacred vratas among Hindus. The Ramachandrika and Vratarka also states that each and everyone should observe this vrata as it is the only means of worldly happiness and salvation.

Navratri, celebrated in the month of March-April is the starting of the Hindu New Year. The nine-day festival is synonymous with the celebration of Ram Navami. The Ram Navami festival is celebrated on the last of this 9-day long festival. Ram Navami is the birthday of lord Rama, and is observed as the ninth day of the waxing moon in the month of Chaitra (March-April). Lord Vishnu is worshipped in his human incarnation as Rama, the divine ruler of Ayodhya. This day is celebrated with full joy in Ayodhya, the place where lord Rama was born. A two day fair is also organized there.

Celebrations start with a prayer to the Sun early in the morning. A special prayer is performed during mid-day, the time when Lord Rama is believed to have been born. People sing and recite devotional songs for Lord Rama and a chariot procession is carried out on the street. It carries four persons who are dressed as Lord Rama, his brother Laxman, wife Sita and Rama’s disciple Hanuman. Many people dressed up in the costumes of Rama’s soldier also walk behind the chariot.

During this period people gather in the banks of the sacred river of Sarayu and perform holy dip. On the day of Ram Navami, some observe a strict fast They recite devotional songs and prayers in praise of him. Some people arrange special Ramach-aritamanas recital programmes to make the occasion more devotional. There is regular chanting of Gayatri Mantra 24, 000 times and yagyan. The birth of Lord Rama on the day of Ram Navami is believed to be the end of the evil era.

Navratri is an auspicious occasion for Vaishnavas (a sect of Hindu who consider Vishnu as their God) who celebrate it with due solemnity. There is a popular belief that Lord Rama full fills one’s dream if he/she prays him on this day of Ram Navami.

In Jammu Navratras are celebrated with enthusiam and gaiety. People visit different temples. Especially a huge rush is witnessed in Raghunath Mandir. But the Chief attraction of the Navratras is the Darshan of Goddess Bhawani (Mahakali) at Bahu Fort. Tens of thousands of people visit the shrine since very early morning. The whole city of temples wears a festive look.

Lakhs of people visit Mata Vaishnodevi during Navratras. To have the Darshan of the Holy Mother in the form of natural pindies is considered highly auspicious. Katra wears a festive lok during Navratras. People from far and wide visit the cave shrine. Ist Navratras is celebrated as Navreh by Pandits of Kashmir. On this day a new almanc for the year is released people have the darshan in the morning of a basket full of nil, on which flowers, walnuts curd, milk, pen, cooked nil and a herb celled ‘Wai’ (sweet flag) is put. A mela is held at Chakrareshwar temple at Hari Parbat in Srinagar on this day.

People start farting on Ist Navratras upto Ram Navami. Pujas are regularily held in homes and temples on Rama Navmi People visit Ram temples. Sri Ragu Nath temple is the main attraction of Ram Navami. of natural pandits is considered highly auspicious. Katra wear a festive look during Navratras. People from far and wide visit the cave shrine.

It is hoped that these Navratras will bring overall well being and prosperity to the country in general and the State in particular. Navratras are the herbinger of new light and festivities. Let Navratras bestow upon the people of the State all round prosperity.