#king vikramaditya

[yatrapur]

Vikramaditya | The King of Ujjain and the Nine Gems

The great King Vikramaditya of Ujjain is a strong and very important pillar of Indian history, known for his wisdom, justice and valor. Before 2000 years, he ruled Ujjain, a city of religious and historical importance. He is remembered for the court adorned with nine gems, victory in the war against the Shakas, the beginning of the Vikram Samvat calendar and the stories associated with the famous throne of Singhasan Battisi and 32 statues.

[whencyclopedia]

Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram (sometimes simply called Kanchi or Kanci) is an ancient city in the Tamil Nadu region of southern India. Once a capital of the Pallava dynasty, Kanchipuram was also a noted centre of learning for Tamil and Sanskrit scholars. Known as 'the religious capital of the South' its early 8th century CE Kailasanatha temple is one of the most impressive structures surviving from ancient India.

Historical Overview

The city was at one time the capital of the Pallavas (4th to 9th centuries CE). Kanchipuram fell to King Pulakesin II (r. 610-642 CE) in the 7th century CE when this powerful Early Western Calukya ruler defeated Harsa of Kanauj. Falling again into Pallava hands it was recaptured by the Calukya ruler Vikramaditya II (r. 733-746 CE) and a contemporary inscription at the site records this victory. Kanchi was also the home of the famous 6th century CE poet Bharavi who wrote the Kiratarjuniya and the famous 11th to 12th century CE Hindu philosopher Ramanuja. Still today an important religious centre, the site has over 120 temples and is also noted for its production of fine silk saris.

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[aru-loves-krishnaxarjuna]

KaJu

Pt.2 -> Masterlist

A day before the departure, Arjuna recieved an unusual parcel, or rather, a gift. From the one and only Vasudev Krishna. That boy was older than him by two years, and was from the royal family of the oligarchy kingdom, Dwarka.

Arjuna opened the box, and saw atypical but adorable blue stones, along with a small letter and a peacock feather.

Hope you like the small gift, Parth!

—Vasudev Krishna

'Why did he send only me a cute yet unusual gift like this? Because none of my Bhrata have got one. And Parth? Is he referring to me? Either way, i really love the name!' Arjuna thought as he kept away the stones in a part of his dhoti, and rummaged through the seven-tiered Chakravyuha formation.

"Arju?" Came Bheem's voice. Arjuna perked up as he jumped on the twenty-one year old lad, who caught him and twirled him in the air ruffling his younger brother's hairs.

"Bhrata Bheem!" Exclaimed Arjuna cheerfully. "Let me guess, you want to eat sweets together with all our brothers and discuss plans about the war tomorrow, right?" Bheem pulled Arjuna by the shoulder and grinned wide. "You guessed right! Now come on!" Vrikodar pulled Phalgun along, who just laughed.

"Yesterday was impressive! You fought sooo well!" Nakul said excitedly.

"I think we should get to serious topics now, Nakul. We have to go to war tomorrow." Said Yudhishthir, being his usual serious self. "As me and the others were discussing, you would have to lead us in the war, Phalgun."

"I agree. Because Panchal Raj is most likely to use that formation. We will clear the way for you." Sahadev added, with a gentle smile.

_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–_–

It was a pretty windy day. It was still dark outside as he made his way to the stables to see his white pet horse. Arjuna had received him as a present just a few months ago; since he was a young warrior now, he could have a horse of his own. He had named him Vikramaditya — a rather fancy name for a horse. Vikram for short. Arjuna was really fond of him, and stroked and cuddled the animal as he drank water from his tub. As he headed towards the main halls, he heard raised voices coming clearly from a distance. Outside, in the main yard, Duryodhan was up bright and early before sunrise, having a full-blown argument with Drona, as many people looked on.

"But that is unfair, Acharya!"

"I am having none of it! He can not come!"

"But it will be much easier if he goes with us!"

"Then it means that you are not confident in your own skills!"

It was then that Arjuna noticed Karna standing beside Duryodhan, head lowered, jaw tightened in anger and shame. Drona hadn't initially recognised him at the ceremony, since they'd met after several years, but had known who he was the minute he'd introduced himself. Moments later, the argument was interrupted by Shakuni, who bowed before Drona. He already seemed to have something up his sleeve, like he always did.

"Respected Guru", he drawled, "Allow me to explain, if you please." He shoved Duryodhan aside and stepped in front of Drona. "I understand you do not wish to take along a man who isn't your pupil, but I assure you! You can most certainly take him along without letting him participate! You and your son are going as well, but neither of you are fighting. Similarly, you may take Angaraj with you. Let him stay back, but remember, Drupad is tough to defeat. Just in case your pupils find themselves in peril, you may send the King of Anga to their aid in an emergency. Not only would this benefit you, but also ensure that you have a second plan if your first one goes awry."

Drona hesitated. Shakuni had a point. After thinking for a few moments more, he relented. "Alright. He can come. But mind you, young man", he pointed a finger at Karna. "You can only join the battle of I order you to do so." Duryodhan and Karna nodded, looking pleased and relieved.

"What's going on?" said a boisterous voice behind Arjuna. He turned to see Bheem with Yudhishthir.

"King Karna of Anga will be joining us too." In response, Bheem scoffed and rolled his eyes. None of Arjuna's brothers took well to Karna, given that he was clearly on Duryodhan's side anyways.

As the princes arrived slowly and stood in front of their teacher, Drona addressed them. "Today is the day of the first battle of your lives. I want you all to do well. But be warned, Drupad is not an easy man to defeat, for he has the same knowledge of and training in warfare that I have imparted to all of you. It is my goal to defeat him with some of the greatest young warriors whom I have taught myself. If any of you are still a bit apprehensive about this, you are free to opt out of the Gurudakshina. Of those who choose to participate, I have faith you will not let me down."

Arjuna felt even more emboldened than before. He bit his lip, struggling to control the excitement from showing on his face. He would do it. They bade goodbye to the elders and set off. Panchal was not very far from Hastinapur, it was a journey of about nine hours on horseback and in chariot-cars. Since they had left in the early morning, they arrived in the middle of the afternoon. Panchal was comparatively smaller than Hastinapur but was blessed with picturesque landscapes worthy of portraits - sparkling lakes, long stretches of deep green meadows and rolling hills.

Without warning, the party marched into the capital of Kampilya. The citizens gathered on the street sides in astonishment and confusion, many shouted and ran out of their homes to watch what was happening. Drona and his pupils headed straight to the palace, and as they approached the gates, he addressed the royal guards in a booming voice:

"Hear, hear, guards of this gate! I hereby command you to call upon your Maharaj at this very moment! Tell him that his old friend, Drona, has finally come to fulfil his part of the bet!"

The guards had no time to protest: seeing a host of over a hundred young warriors all wielding various weapons sent them into a frenzy. They rushed inside at once, yelling out and within minutes, Drupad had come outside, a large army of soldiers in his wake.

Drona ordered the Pandavas, Karna and Ashwatthama to stand back, and sent the Kauravas inside first. All hundred and one brothers ran in like a stream of wild bulls, charging straight at Drupad, who stood back as his soldiers ran at the princes. Chaos ensued. Maces slammed into each other, arrows were shot from all ends, fearsome spears were thrown with great force and swords clashed all around. The fight continued for around twenty minutes. Karna waited eagerly, his bow ready, hoping he would be called, but Drona stood just as resolutely in front of him, watching the scene unfold.

The Pandavas and Ashwatthama stood to one side far from the huge gates, Arjuna and Ashwatthama gossiping like the old friends they were, with Nakul adding his two cents here and there between their conversation.

"Now is not the time to be talking or gossiping, Phalgun." Came Jyesht's voice, in response of which he gave a whine. "Why are you always ruining the fun!?"

The others nodded their heads and crossed their arms as Yudhishthir sweatdropped.

Drona turned to the Pandavas. "It is your turn now, Panduputro. Go." The five hadn't noticed when their literal hunded cousins came back; Duryodhan and Dushasan were the last ones to return, panting and out of breath. They were both a mess; Dushasan had a gash on his thigh and several bruises over his face; Duryodhan’s hair had become terribly untidy and dusty from having fallen several times, and he looked like he’d had the wind knocked out of him.

Bheem would have laughed at them if it wasn't for the serious matter ahead of him and his brothers. They all nodded and the five proceeded towards the gate as Drupad yelled something imperceptible at Drona again. As per the plan, Yudhishthir stayed at the gate, blocking it with his chariot; the twins stood far out on either side of him, preparing to jump on anyone who tried to attack their eldest brother or their teacher. Meanwhile, Bheem ran straight inside towards the army, clearing the path for Arjuna, who entered in his wake on Vikram. Bheem alone was enough to take a little over half of the army; he charged with full force, his mighty mace thrashing anyone who tried to stop him. Meanwhile, Arjuna started his work of breaking the Chakravyuha, while his brothers worked together to defeat all soldiers.

Arjuna repeatedly shot arrows that multiplied into hundreds at once, thus easily fending off the other half of the army. The seventeen year old rode with his head low; whenever his horse began to show signs of panic, he would rub his neck comfortingly, leading him in various directions away from any oncoming soldiers before turning round and shooting at them with impeccable aim.

Arjuna was almost near the center but that was when he saw the Panchal Raj outside the Chakravyuha. He was about to break the last layer and go but was stopped by a shout. "Return to your teacher, you insolent boy! Your Guru is as pathetic as he always was, using his students to fight this battle with me! What else can one expect from a coward? Return, I tell you! Or else you shall meet the same fate as the hundred who came before you!"

Arjuna felt his temper rising at hearing his teacher being insulted this way. He was now more determined than ever to successfully complete this task. He shot arrows at Drupad, who shot back immediately. They collided and fell lifeless to the cracked, sun-scorched earth.

As the fight continued however, many of Drupad's army personnel were left in awe as they looked on; they weren't going to intervene when their King was fighting another warrior; but what had surprised them was that, despite having a positional advantage of standing up high on an elephant (compared to the Rajkumar on the ground), their King was slowly but surely losing the fight.

No one could tell the small gap of a few seconds between Arjuna taking out arrows from his quiver and him finally releasing them. His movements were nimble, agile, skilful. At one point, Arjuna shot an arrow that grazed Drupad's shoulder. The force of it caused Drupad to lose his balance and fall off the elephant.

The former jumped off his horse and ran towards him. Now was his chance to trap Drupad. However, there was a flash of light and the next moment, there were five identical men standing in front of him. Arjuna's mouth fell slightly open. Drupad had used a spell of which he had no knowledge of, one that could create illusions of himself. The five Drupads all looked at him, each with a smug expression on his face, inviting him to capture one of them. There was no way he could tell the real Drupad apart.

And suddenly as one of the Drupad's slashed st him, he dodged at the last minute but the stone he had kept had fallen down.

Five pairs of eyes. The eyes. The eyes on the bluish pebbles…

And then it struck him. It was so sudden that for a moment he thought it was madness to believe it. But could it be? There was a tiny chance it was true. He stole a glance at the eyes of each Drupad. The man on the far left end was looking straight at the man to his own left. The three men from the right were also looking at the man to their right. All as if trying to imitate him. The man in question was staring right at Arjuna.

Then he knew. In a flash, he shot an arrow at the man standing second from the left. It transformed into ropes, which bound themselves around Drupad. The king let out a yell of surprise and stumbled backwards, as the remaining four illusions disappeared. Arjuna too let out an exclamation of triumph, "So there you are!" He couldn’t help but laugh. "You should have instructed your impostors not to make it so obvious that they were trying to copy you."

When Drupad was brought before Drona, he was fuming, humiliated at being defeated by a young boy. Drona was beaming yet again, both at Drupad's defeat and at his favourite student. The teacher and the king began a heated discussion, in which Drona agreed to let Drupad go if the latter gave him half his kingdom (as he had apparently promised to do several years ago before going back on his word). The raging king had to give in in order to be set free.

The Kauravas were sullen and grumpy at their inability to perform well, and at being outshined by their five cousins once again. Karna was dejected as he hadn't had a chance to take part, yet couldn't help but admire the younger archer. Bheem was elated as Drona praised him for his might and strength. Arjuna, Yudhishthir, Nakul and Sahadev each received hugs from Drona for their persistence and endeavours.

Though he was certainly happy at having successfully completed the Gurudakshina task, Arjuna's mind was far from praise and glory at the moment.

All he could think about were the five pebbles Krishna had sent him.

┏━━━━•❅•°•❈•°•❅•━━━•❅•°•❈•°•❅•━━━━┓

❍               ❍                ❍

┗━━━━•❅•°•❈•°•❅•━━━•❅•°•❈•°•❅•━━━━┛

Yudhishthir was crowned Yuvraj and Duryodhan wasn't able to swallow it down his evil throat. And that was again when Shakuni jumped in. They had planned about how they were going to burn the Pandavas alive and even convinced Raaj Maata Kunti, and Karna, still harboring Dharma in his mind, didn't take well to it. He excused himself. "Mitra, I am going to take some fresh air outside. I- I will meet up with you later on." And walked away without even waiting for Duryodhan's response.

As he walked down the corridors, Karna saw lotuses floating on the water of the fountains and remembered the Raaj Maata's face. He smiled as he took one and peoceeded towards the Queen Mother's room as it was…maybe, the last time he would see her again.

Arjuna was the first one to arrive at his Kunti Maa's room, skipping all his way excitedly like the adorable teenager he still was, because she had called them to talk and discuss about going to Varnavrat. As he reached outside door of her kaksh, he didn't notice Angaraj Karna behind him because he was coming from the other way and was almost there when they both heard voices and their conversation and it shocked them to the core.

Some lines have been taken from SuaveBlackSwan's book 'Mahabharata — a retelling' as well as inspired from my pyaari si Jiji @bharatiya-naari-sab-pe-bhaari :)

[connectparanormal]

The Indian Vetala

Vetala, a mysterious entity in Indian mythology, haunts folklore and has deep metaphorical meaning. The Vetala, a ghost or spirit from ancient Hinduism, inhabits corpses and lonely locations like cremation grounds and woodlands. Vetalas are more complicated and clever than conventional ghosts, generally described as having tremendous knowledge and magical powers. In Indian mythology and narrative, the Vetala is unusual and enduring due to its ambiguity between malevolence and knowledge. Betal Pachisi, also known as The Twenty-Five Tales of the Vetala or Vikram and the Vampire, contains a famous Vetala representation. King Vikramaditya must capture a vetala from a cremation ground corpse in this collection of legends. Every time the king tries to take the Vetala to a magician, the creature gives him a story with a puzzle or moral issue. If the king responds correctly, the Vetala escapes and returns to its tree, prompting the king to pursue it again. The narrative is episodic and philosophical due to this cycle of riddles and escapes. The Vetala's inquiries test the king's intellect, morality, and justice, revealing important truths about human nature and ethical decision-making.

These stories show the Vetala's dual position as a trickster and teacher. It is cunning and enjoys testing the king's patience and wits. However, its riddles teach moral and philosophical lessons by compelling the king—and the reader or listener—to consider challenging questions about duty, loyalty, and right and wrong. The Vetala's dualism symbolizes her status as a transitional figure between life and death, good and evil, chaos and order. It represents the complicated and frequently contradictory nature of existence by being neither good nor bad. In addition to storytelling, the Vetala is rich with Indian spiritual and cultural traditions. Since it haunts cremation grounds and inhabits corpses, it is associated with death and the hereafter. Hindus revere the cremation ground because it blurs the line between the corporeal and spiritual realms, making it a suitable abode for the Vetala. In such places, it symbolizes the transience of life and death, essential to Hinduism. The Vetala's capacity to possess corpses and affect the physical world shows its power and autonomy, distinguishing it from other spirits or ghosts bound by their former lives or karmic obligations.

The Vetala reflects human interest in the supernatural and unknown. It challenges morals and identity as a non-categorizable creature. While its brilliance and cunning make it a deadly opponent, its eagerness to talk and share knowledge shows a more complex character. Vetalas are prominent in Indian folklore and modern adaptations due to their complexity. In literature, film, and television, it symbolizes mystery, danger, and wisdom. Its ability to inspire thinking and wonder makes the Vetala so appealing. Its contrasts force us to face existence's duality and human complexity. Its riddles and stories make us evaluate our beliefs and learn more about morality, justice, and humanity. At the same time, its ominous presence and uncanny abilities remind us of the vast and enigmatic forces beyond human knowledge. Vetala is a mirror that reflects human fears, desires, and questions, not just a ghost or trickster. Its intellect, mystery, and symbolism make the Vetala a perennial and captivating figure in Indian mythology and beyond.

[art-mirrors-art]

Prince Mrigank Consults an Astrologist with a Divine Mirror, an Illustration from Dvadasa Bhava (watercolor with golden inserts on paper, c.1600s) The illustration is from the Persian translation of an ancient Sanskrit text known as Dvadasa Bhava (Twelve Existences). The narrative is focused on Vikramanka who could be interpreted as either the Gupta king Chandragupta II (c. 380-415 AD) or alternatively the Western Chalukyan king Vikramaditya VI (c .1076-1126 AD). Prince Mrigank is one of the main characters in the narrative.

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 11.5 (before 1940)

1138 – Lý Anh Tông is enthroned as emperor of Vietnam at the age of two, beginning a 37-year reign. 1499 – The Catholicon, written in 1464 by Jehan Lagadeuc in Tréguier, is published; this is the first Breton dictionary as well as the first French dictionary. 1556 – Second Battle of Panipat: Fighting begins between the forces of Hem Chandra Vikramaditya, the Hindu king at Delhi and the forces of the Muslim emperor Akbar. 1605 – Gunpowder Plot: Guy Fawkes is arrested in the cellars of the Houses of Parliament, where he had planted gunpowder in an attempt to blow up the building and kill King James I of England. 1688 – Prince William III of Orange lands with a Dutch fleet at Brixham to challenge the rule of King James II of England (James VII of Scotland). 1757 – Seven Years' War: Frederick the Great defeats the allied armies of France and the Holy Roman Empire at the Battle of Rossbach. 1768 – The Treaty of Fort Stanwix is signed, the purpose of which is to adjust the boundary line between Indian lands and white settlements set forth in the Royal Proclamation of 1763 in the Thirteen Colonies. 1780 – French-American forces under Colonel LaBalme are defeated by Miami Chief Little Turtle. 1811 – Salvadoran priest José Matías Delgado rings the bells of La Merced church in San Salvador, calling for insurrection and launching the 1811 Independence Movement. 1828 – Greek War of Independence: The French Morea expedition to recapture Morea (now the Peloponnese) ends when the last Ottoman forces depart the peninsula. 1834 – Founding of the Free University of Brussels by Pierre-Théodore Verhaegen. 1862 – American Civil War: Abraham Lincoln removes George B. McClellan as commander of the Army of the Potomac. 1862 – American Indian Wars: In Minnesota, 303 Dakota warriors are found guilty of rape and murder of whites and are sentenced to death. Thirty-eight are ultimately hanged and the others reprieved. 1872 – Women's suffrage in the United States: In defiance of the law, suffragist Susan B. Anthony votes for the first time, and is later fined $100. 1881 – In New Zealand, 1600 armed volunteers and constabulary field forces led by Minister of Native Affairs John Bryce march on the pacifist Māori settlement at Parihaka, evicting upwards of 2000 residents, and destroying the settlement in the context of the New Zealand land confiscations. 1895 – George B. Selden is granted the first U.S. patent for an automobile. 1898 – Negrese nationalists revolt against Spanish rule and establish the short-lived Republic of Negros. 1911 – After declaring war on the Ottoman Empire on September 29, 1911, Italy annexes Tripoli and Cyrenaica. 1912 – Woodrow Wilson is elected the 28th President of the United States, defeating incumbent William Howard Taft. 1913 – King Otto of Bavaria is deposed by his cousin, Prince Regent Ludwig, who assumes the title Ludwig III. 1914 – World War I: France and the British Empire declare war on the Ottoman Empire. 1916 – The Kingdom of Poland is proclaimed by the Act of 5th November of the emperors of Germany and Austria-Hungary. 1916 – The Everett massacre takes place in Everett, Washington as political differences lead to a shoot-out between the Industrial Workers of the World organizers and local police. 1917 – Lenin calls for the October Revolution. 1917 – Tikhon is elected the Patriarch of Moscow and of the Russian Orthodox Church. 1925 – Secret agent Sidney Reilly, the first "super-spy" of the 20th century, is executed by the OGPU, the secret police of the Soviet Union.

[gkfarming]

Haryana was part of the Kuru Kingdom during the Vedic era during 1200 BCE.

Haryana has been inhabited since the pre-historic period. Haryana was part of the Indus Valley civilization during the Bronze Age period. The ancient sites of Rakhigarhi and Bhirrana are some of the oldest Indus Valley civilization sites.(5) Haryana was part of the Kuru Kingdom during the Vedic era during 1200 BCE.(6)(7)(8) The area now Haryana has been ruled by some of the major empires of India. The Pushyabhuti dynasty ruled the region in the 7th century, with its capital at Thanesar. Harsha was a prominent king of the dynasty.(9) The Tomara dynasty ruled the region from 8th to 12th century. The Chahamanas of Shakambhari defeated them in the 12th century.(10)

Harsha Ka Tila mound, ruins from the reign of 7th century ruler Harsha.

Lal kot built by Anangpal Tomar in 1052

Portrait of Hem Chandra Vikramaditya, who fought and won across North India from the Punjab to Bengal, winning 22 straight battles.(11)

In 1192, Chahamanas were defeated by Ghurids in Second Battle of Tarain.(10) In 1398, Timur attacked and sacked the cities of Sirsa, Fatehabad, Sunam, Kaithal and Panipat.(12)(13) In the First Battle of Panipat (1526), Babur defeated the Lodis. Hem Chandra Vikramaditya claimed royal status after defeating Akbar's Mughal forces on 7 October 1556 in the Battle of Delhi. In the Second Battle of Panipat (1556), Akbar defeated the local Haryanvi Hindu Emperor of Delhi, who belonged to Rewari. Hem Chandra Vikramaditya had won 22 battles across India from Punjab to Bengal, defeating the Mughals and Afghans. Hemu had defeated Akbar's forces twice at Agra and the Battle of Delhi in 1556 to become the last Hindu Emperor of India with a formal coronation at Purana Quila in Delhi on 7 October 1556. In the Third Battle of Panipat (1761), the Afghan king Ahmad Shah Abdali defeated the Marathas.(14)

In 1966, the Punjab Reorganisation Act (1966) came into effect, resulting in the creation of the state of Haryana on 1 November 1966.(15)

Distribution

Haryanvis within Haryana

See also: Demography of Haryana

The main communities in Haryana are Gujjar, Jat, Brahmin, Agarwal, Ahir, Chamar, Nai, Ror,Rajput, Saini, Kumhar, Bishnoi etc.(16) Punjabi khatri and Sindhi refugees who migrated from Pakistan had settled in large numbers in Haryana and delhi.

Haryanvi diaspora overseas

(icon)

This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. (July 2021)

See also: Indian disaspora overseas

There is increasingly large diaspora of Haryanvis in Australia, Canada, Singapore, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, UAE, UK, USA, etc.

In Australia, the community lives mainly in Sydney and Melbourne, has set up Association of Haryanvis in Australia (AHA) which organise events.(17)

In Singapore, the community has set up the Singapore Haryanvi Kunba organisation in 2012 which also has a Facebook group of same name. Singapore has Arya Samaj and several Hindu temples.

Culture

Main article: Haryanvi culture

Language

Main article: Haryanvi language

Haryanvi, like Khariboli and Braj is a branch of the Western Hindi dialect, and it is written in Devanagari script.(18)

Folk music and dance

Main article: Music of Haryana

Folk music is integral part of Haryanvi culture. Folk song are sung during occasion of child birth, wedding, festival, and Satsang (singing religious songs).(2) Some haryanvi folk songs which are sung by young woman and girls are Phagan, katak, Samman, Jatki, Jachcha, Bande-Bandee, Santhene. Some songs which are sung by older women are Mangal geet, Bhajan, Sagai, bhat, Kuan pujan, Sanjhi and Holi. Folk songs are sung in Tar or Mandra stan.(19) Some dances are Khoriya, Chaupaiya, Loor, Been, Ghoomar, Dhamal, Phaag, Sawan and Gugga.(19)

Cuisine

Haryana is agricultural state known for producing foodgrains such as wheat, barley, pearl millet, maize, rice and high-quality dairy. Daily village meal in Haryana consist of a simple thali of roti, paired with a leafy stir-fry (saag in dishes such as gajar methi or aloo palak), condiments such as chaas, chutney, pickles. Some known Haryanvi dishes are green choliya (green chickpeas), bathua yogurt, bajre ki roti, sangri ki sabzi (beans), kachri ki chutney (wild cucumber) and bajre ki khichdi. Some sweets are panjiri and pinni prepared by unrefined sugar like bura and shakkar and diary. Malpua are popular during festivals.(20)

Clothes

See also: History of clothing in the Indian subcontinent and History of Textile industry in India

Traditional attire for men is turban, shirt, dhoti, jutti and cotton or woollen shawl. Traditional attire for female is typically an orhna (veil), shirt or angia (short blouse), ghagri (heavy long skirt) and Jitti. Saris are also worn. Traditionally the Khaddar (coarse cotton weave cloth) is a frequently used as the fabric.(21)(22)

Cinema

See also: Haryanvi cinema and List of Haryanvi-language films

The First movie of Haryanvi cinema is Dharti which was released in 1968. The first financially successful Haryanvi movie was Chandrawal (1984) which spurted the continuing production of Haryanvi films, although none have been as successful.(23) Other films such as Phool Badan and Chora Haryane Ka followed with only about one out of twelve films being profitable at the box office.(23) In 2000, Aswini Chowdhary won the Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director at the National Film Awards for the Haryanvi film Laddo.(24) In 2010 the government of Haryana announced they were considering establishing a film board to promote Haryanvi-language films.(25)

[n-2-b]

It is a phrase that echoes in the hearts of every Sanatani. Because when you speak of Sanatan Dharma, Kashi is its soul. And at its heart lies the majestic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, pulsing with devotion, divinity, and centuries of stories.

But what is it about Kashi that draws people like a magnet? Why do countless devotees leave everything behind to walk the ancient lanes of this sacred city, just to glimpse Mahadev?

They say, “Kashi mein basti hai kahaniyaan…”

Kashi, also known as Varanasi, is an emotion as much as a city. Home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple symbolizes spiritual strength (Linga) and divine light (Jyoti). The Ganga peacefully flows on its western side, and Lord Shiva is revered here as Vishwanath or Vishweshwara—the Ruler of the Universe.

Today, we uncover the timeless tales of this sacred temple—a place where divinity breathes in every corner.

History of Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The temple, originally built by King Vikramaditya, has witnessed numerous cycles of destruction and revival.

1194: Qutb ud-Din Aibak ordered its destruction.

1230: A Gujarati merchant restored it during Sultan Iltutmish’s reign.

Sikandar Lodhi’s Rule: The temple was razed again.

Raja Man Singh: Oversaw its reconstruction.

Aurangzeb’s Era: The temple was demolished and replaced with the Gyanvapi Mosque.

1780: Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore rebuilt the temple, shaping its present grandeur.

Despite these turbulent times, Kashi Vishwanath Temple stands as a beacon of faith and cultural heritage, continuing to be a vibrant center of worship.

Architecture of Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple exemplifies the Nagara style of architecture, a hallmark of North Indian temples.

Key features include:

A golden dome and��tower adorned with a flag and trident.

The quadrangular main shrine, surrounded by smaller shrines dedicated to deities like Hanuman, Vishnu, Annapurna, and Vinayaka.

An intricately carved 51-foot-high spire, depicting Hindu mythological figures.

The Gyan Vapi (Well of Wisdom), where history and spirituality converge.

A spacious Sabha Mandap serves as a gathering space for rituals.

Recent developments under the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project have enhanced accessibility while preserving its historical charm.

[jnanadegulavidu]

The Brave King Vikramaditya and the Demon

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Ram Temple in Ayodhya | A Symbol of Faith and Struggle for Hindus

If you are interested in learning more about the Ram temple in Ayodhya, and why it is a symbol of faith and struggle for millions of Hindus, then you should read this article.

The Ram temple in Ayodhya is one of the most sacred and revered places for Hindus around the world. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the supreme deity of Hinduism. Lord Ram is considered to be the ideal king, warrior, son, husband, and father, and his life story is narrated in the epic Ramayana. The Ram temple in Ayodhya is not only a place…

[whencyclopedia]

Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram (sometimes simply called Kanchi or Kanci) is an ancient city in the Tamil Nadu region of southern India. Once a capital of the Pallava dynasty, Kanchipuram was also a noted centre of learning for Tamil and Sanskrit scholars. Known as 'the religious capital of the South' its early 8th century CE Kailasanatha temple is one of the most impressive structures surviving from ancient India.

Historical Overview

The city was at one time the capital of the Pallavas (4th to 9th centuries CE). Kanchipuram fell to King Pulakesin II (r. 610-642 CE) in the 7th century CE when this powerful Early Western Calukya ruler defeated Harsa of Kanauj. Falling again into Pallava hands it was recaptured by the Calukya ruler Vikramaditya II (r. 733-746 CE) and a contemporary inscription at the site records this victory. Kanchi was also the home of the famous 6th century CE poet Bharavi who wrote the Kiratarjuniya and the famous 11th to 12th century CE Hindu philosopher Ramanuja. Still today an important religious centre, the site has over 120 temples and is also noted for its production of fine silk saris.

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Vikramshila: The Forgotten Seat of Learning in Ancient India

Vikramshila University, one of the most significant educational institutions in ancient India, often remains overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, Nalanda. However, its contributions to Indian culture, scholarship, and Buddhism are no less remarkable. Established by the Pala king Dharmapala in the 8th century CE, Vikramshila University became a prominent center of learning for nearly five centuries before its decline in the 12th century. Today, it stands as a symbol of the vibrant intellectual life of medieval India, offering insights into a rich cultural heritage that shaped the history of South Asia and beyond.

The Founding of Vikramshila

Vikramshila was founded by King Dharmapala in the midst of the Pala dynasty's rule, which saw a period of remarkable political and cultural growth in the Bengal region. The king's aim was to create a rival institution to the established Nalanda University, particularly as a response to the growing need for more systematic Buddhist education. Vikramshila was strategically located in modern-day Bihar, near the banks of the Ganges River, and flourished as a major center of both religious and secular learning.

The name "Vikramshila" is thought to be derived from the legendary King Vikramaditya, a figure known for his patronage of the arts and learning. This connection suggests that the university was intended to be a beacon of wisdom, capable of producing scholars and monks of the highest caliber.

A Hub for Buddhist Learning

Vikramshila was primarily known for its association with the Buddhist monastic tradition. It housed numerous scholars and monks who were dedicated to the study of Mahayana Buddhism, with an emphasis on texts, philosophy, and Buddhist logic. It was particularly renowned for its advanced studies in logic, with a distinctive curriculum that focused on the philosophical teachings of Nagarjuna and Aryadeva.

The university's most notable achievement was the education and training of scholars who would later spread Buddhist teachings across Asia. One of its most famous scholars was Atisha, a renowned Tibetan Buddhist scholar who played a crucial role in the transmission of Buddhism to Tibet. Atisha's journey to Tibet and his subsequent influence on Tibetan Buddhism were largely shaped by his education at Vikramshila, further solidifying the university’s legacy in the spread of Buddhist philosophy.

The University’s Structure

Vikramshila was a large monastic university, boasting hundreds of monks and scholars. The institution offered a wide array of subjects beyond Buddhist teachings, including logic, grammar, and other sciences. Its curriculum was rigorous, and the system of education was highly organized. The university was divided into multiple teaching and residential halls, each housing different academic departments. The monks and scholars lived in a disciplined, communal environment where academic discussions, debates, and philosophical arguments were a regular feature of daily life.

Vikramshila was known for its advanced teaching methods, including an extensive use of debates to sharpen critical thinking skills. These debates were not only central to the study of Buddhist philosophy but also helped in developing intellectual acumen, which attracted students from distant lands like China, Tibet, Korea, and Southeast Asia.

Decline and Legacy

Despite its success and importance in Buddhist scholarship, Vikramshila’s decline began in the 12th century. The university was destroyed during the invasions of the Turkish Muslim general Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1193 CE, a period of significant turmoil for the Indian subcontinent. The destruction of Vikramshila, along with other great centers of learning like Nalanda, marked the end of an era of Buddhist dominance in India.

Today, the ruins of Vikramshila stand as a testament to the glory of this once-great university. Archaeological excavations have uncovered remnants of its grand monastic structures, including stupas, sculptures, and inscriptions, offering glimpses into the intellectual and spiritual life that once thrived there. Though it is no longer a living center of learning, Vikramshila’s contributions to Buddhist education and the intellectual history of India are profound.

In conclusion, Vikramshila University stands as an important symbol of the intellectual vibrancy of ancient India. While its destruction by external invaders led to its physical demise, the teachings and scholars it produced continue to influence Buddhist philosophy and education in various parts of the world. Its legacy serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education and the enduring value of learning in shaping cultures and civilizations.

[mnrpardiman]

Before the Anno Domini (AD) system, various calendar systems were used across cultures and regions to track time and date historical events. Here are some of the major calendar systems that preceded the introduction of AD (which was proposed in the 6th century by Dionysius Exiguus):

1. Roman Calendar

System: Initially, the Roman calendar was a lunar calendar with 10 months (March–December), later expanded to 12 months by adding January and February.

Reforms: In 45 BCE, Julius Caesar reformed it into the Julian calendar, which introduced a solar-based system with leap years. Years were counted "Ab Urbe Condita" (AUC), meaning "from the founding of the city (Rome)" in 753 BCE.

2. Egyptian Calendar

System: Based on the solar year, it divided the year into 12 months of 30 days each, with an additional 5 "epagomenal" days.

Significance: It was one of the earliest solar calendars and heavily influenced later calendars, such as the Julian calendar.

3. Greek Olympiad Dating

System: Used in ancient Greece, it calculated years based on the Olympic Games, held every four years starting in 776 BCE. Time was recorded in "Olympiads."

Use: This system was common in historical and sporting records.

4. Babylonian Calendar

System: A lunar calendar with 12 months, occasionally adding a 13th month (intercalary) to align with the solar year.

Notable Era: The Babylonian New Year began with the vernal equinox. It influenced later systems like the Jewish calendar.

5. Hebrew Calendar

System: A lunisolar calendar, where years are based on the moon and corrected to align with the solar year.

Era: The years are counted from Anno Mundi (AM), meaning "in the year of the world," which is traditionally dated to the biblical creation of the world (3761 BCE by Jewish calculation).

6. Chinese Calendar

System: A lunisolar calendar combining solar and lunar cycles. Years were traditionally marked by the reigns of emperors or the Sexagenary Cycle (a 60-year cycle using heavenly stems and earthly branches).

Origins: The calendar dates back to at least the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600 BCE).

7. Indian Calendar Systems

Vikram Samvat: Dating from 57 BCE, attributed to King Vikramaditya.

Shaka Samvat: Introduced in 78 CE by King Shalivahana.

Hindu Lunar Calendar: Dates back to the Vedic period, combining solar and lunar cycles.

8. Maya Calendar

System: Complex interlocking calendars, including the Tzolk'in (260-day ritual cycle), Haab' (365-day solar calendar), and the Long Count (tracking large spans of time from a mythological starting point in 3114 BCE).

Purpose: Used for ceremonial and astronomical purposes.

9. Seleucid Era

System: Used in the Hellenistic world after Alexander the Great, beginning in 312 BCE.

Naming: Often called the Era of Alexander or Seleucid Era.

These calendars reflect the diversity of methods ancient civilizations used to structure time, ranging from astronomical observations to political and mythological milestones.

[nayaindiacom]

In this Shakti Peeth, Vikramaditya Offered His Head 12 Times, The King's Heads are Still Kept in the Temple Today

Navratri 2024:

Ujjain, one of the four major mythological cities in the world, is home to one of the 51 Shakti Peeths dedicated to Goddess Sati. This ancient city is renowned for being the only place in the world with a south-facing Jyotirlinga, Mahakaleshwar, representing the fierce form of Lord Shiva as Mahakal. The city's significance extends beyond its religious importance due to its association with Emperor Vikramaditya. Ujjain's Harsiddhi Temple is especially famous for tantric practices.

On the sacred occasion of Sharadiya Navratri, Naya India presents you with a glimpse of the Harsiddhi Mata Temple in Ujjain. Located just 500 meters from the Mahakal Temple, it sits on the banks of Rudra Sagar, one of the seven sacred lakes, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. Ujjain is unique as it hosts both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peeth in close proximity, symbolizing the union of Shiva and Shakti.

According to ancient beliefs, when Goddess Sati's body was divided into 51 parts, her elbow fell at this sacred site, establishing it as a Shakti Peeth. Ujjain's Shakti Peeth is a rare spiritual and historical landmark, where devotees can worship both Shiva and Shakti together.

[chikushiva]

The Most Famous Temple in Varanasi: Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, is renowned for its spiritual and historical significance. Among its numerous sacred sites, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple stands out as the most famous temple in Varanasi. This iconic temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a focal point of pilgrimage and spiritual reverence.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is situated in the heart of Varanasi, near the banks of the Ganges River. The temple’s history dates back thousands of years, with references to it found in ancient scriptures and historical texts. According to legend, the original temple was built by the legendary King Vikramaditya. However, the temple has been reconstructed several times due to invasions and political changes, with the present structure built by the Maratha ruler, Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, in the 18th century.

This temple is not only a significant spiritual site but also a symbol of resilience and continuity. Despite numerous destructions and reconstructions, it has remained a central place of worship for devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva, the patron deity of Varanasi.

Architectural Marvel

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is an architectural marvel, with its golden spire and intricately designed walls. The temple complex features a high-quality gold dome, which is a prominent feature that attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. The inner sanctum, or the "Garbhagriha," houses the primary deity, the Vishwanath Jyotirlinga, which is a unique form of Shiva worshiped here.

The temple's design reflects the traditional North Indian temple architecture, with its ornate carvings and detailed artwork. Pilgrims often marvel at the temple’s artistic details and the serene atmosphere that prevails within its walls. The temple’s design and the spiritual energy it exudes make it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Varanasi.

Pilgrimage and Festivals

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a major pilgrimage site, drawing millions of visitors each year. Devotees from across India and the world come to Varanasi to offer their prayers and seek blessings. The temple is especially crowded during major Hindu festivals such as Maha Shivaratri, when special rituals and ceremonies are performed.

During these festivals, the temple premises are adorned with flowers, and the air is filled with the sounds of devotional music and chants. Pilgrims often perform rituals and participate in the temple's grand celebrations, which enhance their spiritual experience and connection with the divine.

Visiting Experience

For visitors, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple offers a deeply spiritual experience. The temple is well-maintained, and various facilities are available for pilgrims and tourists. Security measures are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors. The surrounding area is bustling with shops selling religious artifacts, souvenirs, and local delicacies, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the temple complex. ( famous temple in Varanasi )

Visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple provides a unique glimpse into the religious and cultural fabric of Varanasi. Whether you are a devout follower or a curious traveler, the temple’s rich history, architectural beauty, and spiritual ambiance offer a memorable experience.

In conclusion, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is undoubtedly the most famous temple in Varanasi, embodying the essence of the city’s spiritual heritage. Its historical significance, architectural beauty, and vibrant pilgrimage culture make it a central feature of Varanasi’s religious landscape.

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INDIA , THAT IS BHARAT -A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE, #BHARAT

CHANDRAGUPTA II The GUPTA EMPEROR CHANDRAGUPTA II was also known as VIKRAMADITYA or CHANDRAGUPTA VIKRAMADITYA . He was the son of King SAMUDRAGUPTA …INDIA , THAT IS BHARAT -A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE, #BHARAT