Categories
Health & Fashion List

List of Salons in Udaipur

Whether you are new to the city, a tourist or a local, everyone needs a salon! Beauty and hair care services have hiked multifold and are growing day by day. Henceforth, I am listing the list of top 10 salons and makeover studios; an info that might come handy in this approaching wedding season. A lot of ladies might book an appointment today as they surf through the list of Best Salons In Udaipur 😛

Pinks & Peaches Makeover Studio

Pinks & Peaches is a high street makeover studio in Udaipur. Providing professional beauty and hair care services in the city, they have made their name. The professionally trained makeover artist Meeta Soni is the main woman behind all the makeovers.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Makeup services, Bridal Makeovers, Hair Styling & others

Address: 419, Sector -11, Hiran Magri, near Alok School, Udaipur

Phone: 7665416663

Bounce Salon

Started by Maya Choudhary in the year 2017, Bounce is rendering its superior services both to men and women at Ashok Nagar Main Road. The salon claims to use newer technologies in the field of beauty services.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Hair, makeup, nails, skin services

Address: Ashok Nagar Main Road, First floor Above Madame outlet, Udaipur

Phone: 7357833222

Shades Hair Studio

Shades Hair started in October 2010 providing the best skin and hair care services in the beauty industry in Udaipur. Situated at a very apt location, Panchwati, this salon fixes all your beauty, makeup, haircare related issues.Salons in Udaipur

Services: All hair and beauty services

Address: 56, Near Sukhadia Circle, Above the Liverpool Showroom, Panchwati, Udaipur,

Phone: 7821860550

Champion Salon

Durgesh Sen, Jamnesh Sen, Kamlesh Sen and Anil Sen are the pillars of this salon chain and their journey dates back to 1990 when Durgesh installed the first salon ‘Navran Salon & Spa’ at Hiran Magri in Udaipur. They have almost 6 branches – Champion gal’s spa, Champion family salon, champion hair salon and spa, champion kid’s salon, and Navrang Hair Salon and Spa.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Bridal Makeup, Shaving, henna treatment, massages, party makeup, groom’s makeup, eyebrows, facial and so much more.

Addresses:

  1. Champion Hair Salon & Spa

Near Kotak Mahindra Bank, 100 Ft. Road, Kankroli, Rajnagar

  1. Navrang Hair Salon & Spa

3/36, Behind SS Coaching, Sec. 5, Udaipur

  1. Champion Kid’s Salon

2-1, II Floor, Celebration Mall, Bhuwana, Udaipur

  1. Champion Family Salon

2/20, II Floor, Celebration Mall, Bhuwana, Udaipur

  1. Champion Gal’s Spa

MG College Road, Udaipur

  1. Champion Hair Salon & Spa

Shakti Nagar Main Road, Udaipur

Phone: 09829088841 / 09772688841

Prabhat Spa

Dating back to the year 2000, Ashok and Asha Paliwal started Prabhat Spa-Salon & Institute at Panchwati, became a much-recognized name in the City of Lakes. They provide top-notch services in the fields of beauty and hair. They have three more branches excluding the main branch.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Skin care services, nail art, Mehandi Art and Henna services, hair styling, makeup services and Spa services.

Addresses:

  1. Prabhat Spa Salon n’ Institute Head Office

103-104, Hitawala IV, Near Lok Kala Mandal Chougan Scheme, Panchwati, Udaipur

  1. Prabhat Hair & Beauty Studio
    Beside Lake City Mall, Ashok Nagar Main Road, Udaipur
  2. Prabhat Spa & Salon
    6-7, Chawala Restaurant, 100 Feet Road, Shobhagpura, Mewar Circle, Udaipur
  3. Prabhat Academy
    6-7, Chawala Restaurant, 100 Feet Road, Shobhagpura, Mewar Circle, Udaipur

Phone: 02942417623

Mayur Salon

Started in the year 1979, the Mayur salon was started by late Dinesh Chanra Sen, and now is run by his wife Asha Rani Sen, and his son Ajay. They have two branches locates at Chetak Circle and Hiran Magri-sec 5. The salon provides all the facilities in terms of beauty and hair and also has a Mayur Academy, where students are groomed for the beauty industry.Salons in Udaipur

Services: All kinds of hair, skin, spa services, bridal and groom packages.

Addresses:

  1. Mayur academy

1st Floor, Mayur Complex, Opp.Narayan Seva Sansthan, Sector 5, Prabhat Nagar, Hiran Magri, Udaipur

  1. Mayur Salon

Chetak Marg, Opposite Sbbj Bank, Near Akashdeep Building, Udaipur

Phone: +91-9252213410 / 9828379484

Amrit’s Hair and Beauty

An old and trusted name in the field of beauty and hair is Amrit’s. Started back in the year the salon offers various services in the field. They also provide Beauty parlor training to students. The name Amrit’s is derived from Amrit Sen, the Proprietor of once famous Kanhaiya Hair Dressers in Udaipur. His son, Rakesh Sen looks after the hair care dept. of the Amrit’s salon.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Bridal makeup, hair styling, luxury body spa, makeover studio, bridal makeup, and all hair, beauty, skin, nails services.

Address: 1st Floor, Shyam Plaza, 15 Hazareshwar Colony, Hospital Rd, Udaipur,

Phone: +91-9314036360, 0294-2411360

New International Cosmetic Care (NICC)

Started with the motto to revolutionize the field of beauty and hair in the City of Lakes, NICC is the product of hard work of Dr.  Sweety Chabbra. Well-known for its beauty and makeup services, NICC is a great place to get your makeup done.Salons in Udaipur

Services: Total beauty and hair care

Address: Chhabra Niwas, Opp. M. B. College, Near Hotel Raghu Mahal, Udaipur

Phone: 0294-2411913

RNCC Salon

Started by Cosmetologists Rinku and Jia, RNCC is a well-known salon in Udaipur, offering multi-faceted services in the domain of makeup and hair. It is also an Institute for professional courses, advance beauty course guided by experts.Salons in Udaipur

Services: All types of skin treatments and all hair styling and cutting including hair loss treatment, anti-dandruff, radiant color treatment.

Address: 1-B, Mehta Bhawan, Near RTDC Kajri Hotel, Ashok Nagar Main Road, Udaipur

Phone: +91 9252628167 / 7014982707

Ambika’s Hair and Beauty Studio

A luxurious boutique hair and beauty studio running under the name Ambika’s Hair and Beauty Studio. Ambika, the main woman behind the salon, is a certified cosmetologist and travels across the globe for bridal makeup, fashion makeup assignments. She is trained in skin and makeup from New Zealand and London. Her place is a must visit!Salons in Udaipur

Services: Hair, styling, cutting, coloring, treatment, chemical haircare, skin treatments and care, Makeovers, bodywork – body spa etc.

Address: 308, Harsh Nagar near Eklinghnath garden before Rampura circle, Udaipur

Phone: +91-9116013212

If you have been to any of the above-mentioned salons or makeover studios, do tell me the reviews! Also, suggest us any name if we have missed it!

Categories
Places to Visit

Places to have a romantic dinner on Valentine’s Day in Udaipur!

The week has already started and Valentine’s Day is around the corner. To make this day a super special one, I am listing some places which will give you an impeccable view of the city so you can fall in love all over again- both with Udaipur and your Bae! These places are sure to revive that spark!

Make sure to book your table in advance!

Jagat Niwas Palace

Source: Booking.com

This place is one of my favorites in Udaipur- isolated from the hustle-bustle of the city and dipped in tranquility. The ambiance is perfect for having a candlelight dinner with your beloved. Watch the birds returning to their nests and sunset from here and then dive into the pool of luscious cuisine.

Amber

Source: amberudaipur.com

A new addition to the restaurant league in Udaipur, Amber has a great location as it is situated close to the ghat next to Ambrai and overlooks the magical waters of Pichola. The one restaurant is known for its Mexican cuisine, this place can surely set your evening on fire!

Raas Leela

Source: RaasLeela

Superb food and quick service, Raas Leela situated adjacent to the majestic Leela Palace and at the banks of Lake Pichola, is a comfortable place to celebrate Love. The peaceful ambiance will have misty winds blowing on a winter evening and you and your partner will love it!

Upre

Source: UdaipurBlog

Known for its exquisitely romantic ambiance, Upre is a place you cannot miss! The place gives you ‘sitting on the cruise’ feeling. I don’t know many of you have been to Upre on a full moon night, but trust me it’s one hell of an exciting and beautiful view. Date and Upre go hand in hand.

Sunset Terrace

Source: Wedfine

One exotic and the extravagant location is resting in the City Palace Complex- the Sunset Terrace. Live music and the kingly City Palace behind you, a sight and night to remember. The food is delectable and the place is immensely beautiful and a must visit.

BMK

Source: TripAdvisor

Almost everyone in Udaipur knows and loves BlueMoon Kinaraz. Known for its beautiful location that overlooks Pichola and gives a magical view of the City Palace, at night this place becomes heaven. The special setup can be made on demand at the exclusive terrace of BMK and you can have a candlelight dinner and spend some quality time.

Chunda Palace

Source: ChundaPalace

Giving a totally different view, the restaurant at the Chunda Palace will take your breath away. Perfect for a dinner, the place serves the delicious dishes. The service is suave and the view, unimpeachable. What are you waiting for, book a table for two!

Vantage

Source: TripAdvisor

A beautiful new addition to the restaurants in Udaipur is Vantage, situated at Haridas Ji Ki Magri the place has a great view as it’s a rooftop restaurant. The interiors and ambiance are great to take your loved ones on a date they’ll never forget! Mild music playing at the back, this place gives a complete view of the city.

Tribute

Source: Gobymobile

This place has two sitting venues, one inside and another outside. Known as a spot bird watching, Tribute has a sumptuous cuisine and the humbleness and courtesy of the staff make you feel truly special. The place becomes a haven for nature lovers after the dusk and is a must visit on Valentines.

Swayamwar Restaurant, Shouryagarh Resort

Source: HungryDunia

Last but not the least, Swayamwar Restaurant at Shouryagarh Resort and Spa. This one of a kind restaurant is known for its revolving sitting. The place serves great taste and can be on your list of V-day venues undoubtedly. They have also a special setup for the Valentine’s as well.

Also, do tell what are your special plans for the V-Day or where are you taking your darling this year!

P.S.

Not just lovers, you can hang out with your best friend or your siblings or parents or any form of Love! The main thought behind writing this is that you take out some time for people you love. 😊

Categories
News

Gauravi Singhvi from Udaipur swims 48 Km, Makes a new record!

14-year-old, Gauravi Singhvi from the City of Lakes has swum for nine hours from Juhu Beach (Khar Danda) to Gateway of India at the southern tip of the metropolis (Mumbai). Gauravi entered the sea waters in Mumbai at 3:30 am today (6 Feb 2018) and achieved her target by 12:30pm.

Gauravi told the Mumbai Media that she will swim from Khar Danda on the west coast to the Gateway of India which is 48 kilometers. She also stated that she started participating in different swimming competitions from Class 3 and practices day and night.

Gauri Singhvi from Udaipur swims 48 Km, Makes a new record!
Gauri Singhvi swimming
Source: ANI

Earlier, in March 2017, she was the first girl to explore the route from Sea Link near Worli Koliwada to Gateway of India which was a distance of 36 km.

Gauravi is a resident of Udaipur and has always been passionate about swimming and wants to swim the English Channel and also the Arabian sea.

Her coach Mahesh Paliwal said that Gauravi practices regularly for 8-10 hours and after today’s challenge she will be practicing for the English Channel.

Way to go girl!!!

Gauri Singhvi from Udaipur swims 48 Km, Makes a new record!
Source: ANI
Categories
List

The Prominent Churches of Udaipur

Places of worship in Udaipur is something everyone must know. Here we are listing the major churches in Udaipur.

Rajasthan Pentecostal Church

The Rajasthan Pentecostal Church was established by Late Dr. Thomas Matthew, an Apostle of North India. It was in the year 1963 that he started the church; earlier the church was under the Shepherd Memorial, and it was 1987 when it got its own building and management at Rani Road.Churches of Udaipur

Since then, the daily meetings and prayers are conducted at the church, which is Independent for its own practice.

By 2005, there were over one thousand local churches that had been birthed as a result of the work that began in Udaipur by Late Dr. Thomas Matthew. Also, till 2005, Late Dr. Thomas Matthew was pastor of the church. On the 24th November 2005, en route Punjab to preach, he passed away in his sleep, after him Pastor Paul Thomas Mathews took over.

The church has a great architecture, able to accommodate almost 500 devotees at a time.

Rajasthan Pentecostal is of the Protestant churches of the city. The church also helps in the field of education and healthcare. It has educational institutions and hospitals, St. Matthew’s School at Rani Road is one of the institutes.Churches of Udaipur

The Rajasthan Pentecostal Church is affiliated to Filadelfia Fellowship Church of India (Regd.), a national fellowship of 1600 affiliated churches.

Address: Opposite Sanjay Park, Rani Rd, Malla Talai, Udaipur


Shepherd Memorial Church

The Shepherd Memorial Church is carved in the Scottish architecture and is the oldest church in Udaipur. The first worship was offered in this Church after sanctification on 05 July 1891.Churches of Udaipur

It was built by the Scottish Missionary and a Medical Doctor from Aberdeen, Scotland, Rev. Dr. James Shepherd (02 Feb 1847 — 29 Mar 1926) who with the great help of the then State Executive Engineer Mr. Campbell Thompson constructed the church. The church is named after Dr. James Shepherd. It is said that the land for the construction of the church was given to Dr. Shepherd by the Maharana of Udaipur.

Campbell Thompson also constructed lake Fateh Sagas Dam, Railway Line to Chittorgarh, Victoria Memorial Hall (Saraswati Library in Gulab Bagh).Churches of Udaipur

The church is located near Chetak Circle, also known as Church of North India. Shepherd Memorial is a protestant and an independent church and nearly 300 people can pray together in the church. In its earlier days prayers were conducted by Dr. James Shepherd after whom the clergy has changed 18 times and now prayers are being conducted by Rev. Jitendra Nath since 2016.

Address: Shepherd Memorial Church, Church of North India, Chetak Circle, Udaipur


Our Lady of Fatima Cathedral

As per a source, there is a story behind the establishment of this church. A devotee of Our Lady in Germany sent a statue of Our Lady of Fatima to India and remained in Ajmer unopened from 1964 to 1967 in the Bishop’s House.Churches of Udaipur

Bishop of Ajmer helped the Tridium management of Udaipur in fulfillment of their want of a life-size statue of Lady Fatima, where the statue was never opened from its cover. The Tridium Management welcomed to take it.

It is said that Late Rev. Fr. Avito Coutinho expressed amazement seeing the statue which arrived from Ajmer. He was spellbound by the beauty of the statue and immediately decided to take it for their worship. It was kept in a cover till it found a decent place for worshipping, which later on came to be the church where it is now.Churches of Udaipur

In its initial days the statue of Our Lady of Fatima was kept in a newly constructed block in St. Paul’s school campus then it was shifted permanently in the Our Lady Fatima Church.

The church has a huge hall for prayers in which 500 devotees can pray. Also, it is the largest church in Udaipur and has beautiful interiors.

There are many institutions which come under the management of the church, as follows:

  1. Mary’s Sr. Sec. School
  2. Teresa’s Sr. Sec. School
  3. Paul’s Sr. Sec. School, Udaipur
  4. Teresa’s Sr. Sec. School
  5. Asha Dham
  6. Missionaries of Charity
  7. Maitri Sadan
  8. Teresa Hospital
  9. Prerna Press

Address: Opposite St. Paul’s Sr. Sec. School, Bhopalpura, Udaipur


St. Gregorios Orthodox Church

The church at St. Gregorios celebrates its Foundation Day in January 1987. It was created as a parish of Malankara Orthodox Church but the Church was named after St. Geevarghese Mar Gregorios of Parumala who is the Patron Saint of the Church building.

A statue of the Patron Saint of is also erected inside the prayer hall, of the Church. It is an orthodox church, and the infrastructure is similar to the churches in Syria.

Churches of Udaipur
Source: Udaipurtimes

Malankara Syrian Christians’ history dates back to their origin when St. Thomas, the Apostle of Jesus Christ, came to India in 52 A.D. A major section of the parent body of St. Thomas Christians constitutes the Orthodox Church under the Catholicos of the East with headquarters at Devalokam, Kottayam. Today, the Church is running a number of Schools, Charitable Institutions like Old Age Homes, Orphanages, Hospitals, etc. all over the country.

The Church can occupy as much as 200 devotees at a time. The Diocese of Delhi Malankara Orthodox Church was the governing body of the church, which later on got acquired by the newly established Diocese of Ahmedabad.

Address: St.Gregorios Orthodox Church, P.B.No.172, Khar Kuan, New Bhupalpura, Udaipur


Emmanuel Mar Thoma Church, Udaipur

The Mar Thoma Christians migrated from Kerala to Udaipur, after which they felt a necessity of having a place to worship. Thus, they formed “Malayalee Syrian Christian Congregation” which accommodated Mar Thoma and Orthodox Christians. Rev. K. V. Varkey, of Mar Thoma Church Valsad, Gujarat was the first Mar Thoma vicar who visited Udaipur and conducted Holy Communion on 4th September 1966 at the Shepherd Memorial CNI church, Udaipur.

The desire of the Martomites was fulfilled on 6th March 1993, and  Rev. Geeverghese Mar Athanasius, Bombay-Delhi Diocesan Bishop laid the foundation stone of Emmanuel Mar Thoma Church Udaipur & the dedication ceremony by Rt. Rev. Dr. Issac Mar Philoxenos Episcopa on 27th August 1994.

Churches of Udaipur

Later, the members felt the need to have a separate room for the guests who visited the parish. The construction of the guest room was completed in the year 1998.

Churches of Udaipur

Address: Emmanuel Mar Thoma Syrian Church 61, Sukhadia Nagar, University Road, North Ayad, Udaipur


About the series: ‘Places of Worship in Udaipur’

Motive behind carrying out the series

The series carries a sole motive of making the people of the city aware of the places of worship. The series has already covered prominent Temples of the city and the second segment is ‘Churches of Udaipur’.

This information is collected from valid sources to form an article.

Feel free to contribute to this article, by sharing data of any church we have missed. 🙂

Photos By: Siddharth Nagar & Fouzia Mirza

Categories
Places to Visit

The Largest Fish Aquarium in India- ‘Under The Sun’ Aquarium, Udaipur

The privilege of having the largest fish aquarium in India is something to take pride in. Yes, we are talking about the Fish Aquarium, ‘UNDER THE SUN’, situated close to Vibhuti Park.  Located at a hot-spot in Udaipur- the Lake Fatehsagar Paal. Under The Sun is the largest public aquarium gallery in terms of gallons of water, numbers, and species of fish in the entire Nation. Inaugurated on 21st October 2017 by the home minister of Rajasthan, Gulab Chand Ji Kataria, the place has approximately 180 species of fish both from marine and fresh water. Photography is permitted inside the fish aquarium which makes it even more exciting as visitors can carry memories with them.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

The aquarium is a 125-meter-long gallery which hosts a number of small as well as large aquariums with various fish.

Variety of fish:

The species of fish have been brought from around the world viz. South America, Brazil, Senegal, Japan, Africa, Malaysia, Congo, Indonesia, America, China, and marine fish are from the Indian Ocean. They also have some of the rare species of fish like Mormyrus Rume, Alligator Gars, Marine Water Stingray, Senegal Dragons, Puffer Fish, Archer Fish and other sea creatures like – Sea Urchins, Sea Anemone, Fire Belly Newts, Indonesian Mud Crabs, Hermit Crabs, Albino frogs, Fresh Water Scampi and more.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

There is a marine section where you can see a variety of amazing and unique brackish water fish. This section has 5 Marine Water Aquariums. In which fish like Clownfish, Brown Banded Bombay Shark, Blue-Eyed Yellow Tang, Blue Tang, Sea anemones, Sea Urchins, Hermit Crabs, StarFish, Fox Face Rabbit Fish, Trigger Fish, Two-Spotted Damsel, Blue Damsel, Mono Angel, Emperor Angel Fish, Turbo Snail can be seen.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

Management and Structure of the Aquarium:

As you enter the aquarium, a mild music is playing and you come across a beautiful architecture. UIT Udaipur has spent Rs. 2 crores in the construction of the aquarium which is evident, and another 3 crores have been spent on the interiors of the gallery which is even more evident. The whole inside of the place is covered with insulating material and not much light enters the premises, to give the aquatic life their natural habitat.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

The aquarium gallery is built and is being managed by the team of Manshapurn Karni Mata Ropeway, headed by Mr. Kailash Khandelwal. Anjali Azad Dubey, known for her green designs at her firm “Pratham Interiors” gave creative consultancy for the interiors of the aqua gallery. The consultancy for procurement, wellbeing, and maintenance of fish is provided by wildlife expert Mr. Aashish Mahesh Baagla who is based in Mumbai.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

Opportunities at the Fish Aquarium:

It has good opportunities for the students of the Fisheries college of Udaipur as they can learn about various international breeds of fish and other aquatic animals. Mr. Aashish Mahesh Baagla has trained the students of the Fisheries college, who look after the aquariums under his guidance.Fish Aquarium Udaipur

The aquarium poses as a major tourist spot as it drives not only local people but also tourists from the entire globe. As per the management stats, it has a monthly foot-fall of around 50,000 people.

Other attractions at the Under The Sun Fish Aquarium, Udaipur:

  • World’s First Aqua Trick Art Museum by World Renowned Artist Mr. AP Sreethar
  • India’s First Aqua Live Virtual Reality Experiences- for feeling sea life in an immersive 360-degree environment. It is an Award Winning oceanic VR Experiences deployed through state of the art and latest VR Gadgetry
  • Interaction with fish at the Touch Pool where you can feed as well as touch the fish
  • The OMG Tank- the only fish tank in India where you can get inside and experience life underwater, without getting wet.
  • A cafeteria for your munching needs
  • Free high-speed Wi-fi

Fish Aquarium UdaipurTickets at ‘Under The Sun’ fish aquarium Udaipur:

For the Aquarium

Adults: Rs. 118 (inclusive of GST)

Children (Below 15 yrs): Rs. 47 (inclusive of GST)

Foreigners: Rs. 236 (inclusive of GST)

Virtual Reality Experience: Rs. 118 (inclusive of GST)

Trick Art Museum: Rs. 100 (inclusive of GST)

Timings of the Aquarium: 8 am till 11 pm

Address: Fatehsagar Lake Paal, adjacent Vibhuti Park, Udaipur

You can visit their Instagram page for details: @underthesunaquarium

Also, do tell us your experience at the Fish Aquarium at FatehSagar Lake.

Photos by: Siddharth Nagar

Categories
Festivals

Baneshwar Fair – The Maha Kumbh Of Tribals

During the last five days of the month of Magh, Baneshwar Dham, where the three sacred rivers, Som, Mahi, and Jhakad meet, attracts a huge number of tribal’s not only from Rajasthan but also neighbors states such as Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. It is believed that the fair is about 500 years old; located at a distance of about 123 km from Udaipur, 45 km from Dungarpur and 53 km from Banswara and perched on the top of a hill is the highly revered temple of Lord Shiv. Leaving the main road, one has to go Sabla and then reach Baneshwar. The temple is situated near the delta of the rivers Mahi and Som. It was named Baneshwar after the Vagdi Language word ‘Ben’ for Delta and ‘Ishwar’ for Lord.

Baneshwar Fair – The Maha Kumbh Of Tribals
Image Courtesy: Rahul Soni

The beliefs and rituals of the Bhil tribes

Performing rituals for Moksha

The tribals consider Baneshwar, the ‘trisangam’ of the river as the most sacred place for immersing the ashes of their dead as are Kashi, Prayag, Haridwar, Pushkar etc. They believe in doing ‘tarpan’ of the ashes that results in their ‘moksha’. Right from the morning on Purnima, thousands of tribal coming from different directions gather at the ‘sangam’. The ashes of men are wrapped in white cloth while those of women in red color one and then kept in earthen pots. With the help of their ‘guru’ the tribes perform elaborated rituals on the bank of the rivers. Then with their family, they enter the water and begin wailing. They stand in water and pay the last homage to the dead ones who left them during the previous year. After a cleaning bath, they put on fresh clothes and worship gods and goddesses then it is the turn of those pilgrims who do not bring any ashes to have a holy bath, recite mantras and perform rituals.

The legend of the Shivling at Baneshwar Dham

It is time now for the visitors to go to temples. After climbing up a long flight of steps, they reach the Baneshwar Shiv temple. According to a legend related to this temple, once a cow used to go near the Shivlingam and offer her milk to it. It had no milk when it returned home in the evening. Naturally, it made its master very curious to know the reason for all this. One day he followed the cow and seeing it near the Shivlingam got him infuriated. The frightened cow began to run away and in the process, the 20 cm high Lingam was hit by its hind leg and broke into five pieces. Since this then, this ‘Khandit Lingam’ is being worshipped.

Puja is performed twice during the day. Darshan starts at 4:30 am when the ‘Lingam’ is washed with water and ‘kesar’ is offered. In the evening there is bhasma-aarti with five flames. Darshan is open up to 11:00 pm. Devotes can offer flower, fruits, ghee, coconut etc. On this holy spot was built a beautiful temple by Aashkaranji, the Maharawal of Dungarpur in 1453. A Bhil Meena was appointed as the priest of the temple. A big fair began to be held here. And without any consideration of caste and creed, everyone was allowed to worship here. Pilgrims visit the Radha – Krishna’s Hari Mandir, and also the Brahma Mandir, Panchmukhi Mandir, Gayatri Mandir, Shabri Mandir, Raja Bali Temple, Bhagwan Nishkalank Mandir, Ram Jharikha Asharam, Valmiki Mandir, Hanuman Mandir etc.

The happenings at the fair

On the occasion of the big far, the Peethadheeshwar of Sabla who is a descendant of the saint Mavji comes to Baneshwar in a procession in a palanquin with pomp and show covering a distance of about 5 km. Thousands of devotees join the yatra. Also, brought from Maninda Math at Sabla to Baneshwar Dham is the 16 cm silver idol of Mavji on horseback in a palanquin.

Baneshwar Fair – The Maha Kumbh Of Tribals
Image Courtesy: Rahul Soni

First of all, the Mahant takes a dip in the water at Baneshwar Dham. This makes the water holy, it is believed. Then it is time for pilgrims to have a bath. Devotees get a chance to have the ‘darshan’ of the Mahant in Krishna Mandir for five days. The new devotees are initiated and they wear ‘Kanthi’ on the neck. Rasleela is performed for devotees. With great enthusiasm are sung and heard bhajans about the legends associated with Mavji and his teachings. So also, about Mavji and Mehudi who are believed to be Lord Krishna and Meera Bai. A big number of saints and Mahatmas of different sects also put up their camps in the fair for the benefit of their devotees.

The exhibition at Baneshwar

Visitors to the huge fair not only avail this opportunity to perform rites and have ‘darshan’ of temples and saints but also enjoy themselves. They take advantage of the exhibitions about government beneficial schemes of the govt, awareness programs of the health depts. etc. Many of them take part in various games and sports organized by Tribal Area Development agency culture programs, magic shows, and aerobatic shows and swings etc are some other attractions. Shopaholics get a big chance to shop from a big range of articles including plastic items, cosmetic items, bangles, shoes, clothes, artificial jewelry, trinkets, sickle, scythes, axe-heads etc. Also, on sale are weapons such as spears and swords. As archery has a long tradition, there is a big demand for bows and arrows made of bamboo.

Baneshwar Fair – The Maha Kumbh Of Tribals
Image Courtesy: Rahul Soni

Mavji and the history

Baneshwar Dahm has become a sacred place as the great saint Mavji Maharaj did ‘tapsya’ in this region for a long time. He was born at Sabla village in Dungarpur district. He was the son of Keshar Bai and Dalamji. Since his early childhood, people began to revere him due to his saintly nature and miracles. He lefts home at the age of 12 and performed ‘tapasya’ for twelve years in the cave of Sunaiya hills near Sabla. Then he reappeared at Baneshwar and gave ‘darshan’ on Magh Shukla Ekadashi. In his memory is held the Baneshwar fair. Due to his divine deeds, he established himself as a great saint and came to be revered as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. As the scriptures say the ‘rasleela’ of Lord Krishna and the ‘gopis’ at Vrindravan got interrupted. At the request of the ‘gopis’, the Lord promised that ‘ras’ would recommence when he would appear in the form Mavji at Baneshwar.

Mavji wrote several ‘granths’ that include Gyan Rathmala, Guru Shisya Samwad, Prem Tatra, Prem Gita, Shri Bhagwat Mahapurana, Sehaj Gura, Samras Amrit Sagar and Sudanand. All of them are replete with Govind Geets, Krishna Leela and ‘rasleelas’. He also wrote five chopda’s in 776 pages which describe the past, the present and the future. They are written in Devanagri script and the language is a mix of Hindi, Vagadi, and Gujarati. Some of these forecasts have already come true viz Hindus and Muslims would eat together, there would be inter-caste marriage and the low will become high and the high low. Mavji did a lot for social equality at a time when there was much discriminative. He allowed people of all communities to enter temples and do puja and perform ‘rasleela’. He favored widow marriage and he himself married a widow of Patidar Samaj.

In the fair is showcased the tribal culture of the region in its various aspects. One can watch or participate in dances like Gair and Ghumar that are peculiar to the region and games like Gida Dot, that is like hockey and archery. Indian and foreign tourists take the advantage of witnessing the rich folk culture and also love to participate in some activities.

Baneshwar Fair – The Maha Kumbh Of Tribals
Image Courtesy: Rahul Soni
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Places to Visit Travel

Udaipur: Bird Lover’s Paradise!

Who doesn’t love birds with their multi-hued feathers and different forms of the body flying high in the azure sky, perched on branches of trees, swimming effortlessly on the still water of the lakes or driving into the water in search of their prey? The sight of these beautiful avians, one of God’s most attractive gifts to man, always gladdens one’s mind and soul.

Well-known all over the world is the glorious cultural and historic past of Mewar. The intricate sculpture and fascinating folk traditions of the region are unique. In addition to all this, 24 important bird areas in the states, there are six in Udaipur viz Jaisamand lake and sanctuary Phulwari Ki Naal and Sajjangarh sanctuary Sei Dam, Udaipur lakes and Baghdara crocodile park. There are four more such regions in the neighboring districts namely Kumbhalgarh sanctuary, Sita Mata sanctuary, Mount Abu sanctuary and Serari Dam. Thus, South Rajasthan can boast of ten important bird areas. To all these, two more Todgarh-Raoli and Bassi can be added that is home to a huge variety of water and other kinds of bird. No less than 242 bird species have been sighted in Udaipur region.

Udaipur: Bird Lover's Paradise!
flamingos near menar

Out of them, about 102 species are water birds and the remaining ones belong to the categories that live on earth and trees. About 150 species of migratory birds visit the lakes of Udaipur and neighboring area during the winter season. The district has its own identity as the sight of a large number birds of different species and wild animals can be seen easily. When in the months of October November as winter sets in, the number suddenly goes up.

Udaipurites who are lucky enough to be able to watch a good number of migratory birds in the winter season are often curious to know why the birds leave their country and come all the way to distant India. From the European countries and North Asian that become extremely cold during winter, they fly thousands of km away. At home, on the surface of winter bodies, there is snow, as also on the ground. The result is that the insects and the fishes that the birds feed on, either die or hibernate till the end of the winter season. In the absence of easy availability of food the birds fly long distance and migrate to countries that are warm, where lakes do not freeze and there is ample supply of food. In countries like India at that time summer season is just over and monsoon sets in. The lakes are almost full and there is greenery all around. So, food is available in plenty. Migratory birds live and lay eggs in Europe and Russia during summer, experts tell us. As the days are long they get enough time to hatch their eggs. Food is also available in good quantity, so the chicks grow faster.

Udaipur: Bird Lover's Paradise!
Source: Udaipur Kiran

How these migratory birds passing through narrow passages make their way without being hindered by obstacles?

In the case of animals, when they move forward, they feel that objects that are near them seem to come close to them faster than those which are far. Similarly, birds ensure that the pictures of objects on their both sides are in keeping with their speed and then they feel secure.

To save energy for long flights, migratory birds start accumulating fats in their body months in advance in the summer season. Another interesting thing about such birds is that they fly only during the night and rest in the day as to avoid human disturbances and for safety. They fly continuously without any break. During long journeys, they fly in a V-formation or line. When one feels tired it takes a position at the back and is replaced by one who is fresh. Bar-headed goose is a migratory bird that can fly at the highest level that is 10-12 km from the ground. Flying at such a height where there is little oxygen and temperature is minus fifty degree Celsius it reaches Udaipur and other places in Mewar region and Rajasthan. The amazing thing is that they sleep in the air while flying overseas and oceans. Their brain sleeps while their muscles keep functioning covering a distance about 5000 km at the rate of 500-600 km per day, they reach Udaipur to add to the beauty of the water bodies. The longest journey of 11,000 km from North pole to South pole from the Arctic to Antarctica is undertaken by the bird named Arctic Turn. Out of the about 150 species migrating birds that come to Udaipur every year 170 were spotted in the Bird Fair held in December last year.

Udaipur: Bird Lover's Paradise!
Source: Udaipur Kiran • Bird Watchers gathered to see birds

One can easily sight some common residents birds of Udaipur region like Common Coot (Tikadi), Little Grebe (Chhoti Dubdubi), Painted Stork (Jhanghil), Black-necked Stork (Luharjang, Asian Openbrill (Ghonghil), Woolly-necked Stork (Haji Laglag), Great White Pelican (Safed Hawasil), Black-headed Ibis (Kala Bujja)., Black Ibis (Kala Bujja), Greater Flamingo (Bada Hansawar), Red –wattled Lapwing (Titcahri), Little Cormant (Choota Pawan Kauva), Common Hoopoe (Hudhudid), Short-eared Owl (Chhot Kanna Ullu), Egyptian Vulture (Safed Giddh) and White-browed Fantail (Safed Nachni) in summer can be seen Indian Pitta (Desi Naurang), Rosy Starling (Gulab Mainn) etc. Winter visitors include Bar- headed Gouse (Seenkhpar), Pintail (Neessar), Red-chested Pochard (Chhoti Murgbi) etc.

Udaipur: Bird Lover's Paradise!
Source: Udaipur Kiran

It is perhaps worthwhile for bird lovers to know where bird watching can be done. Built by Picchu Banjara, Pichola the biggest and the most famous lake of the town is one of the places where a large number of birds of various species can be sighted. Babool and other bushes are suitable for resident birds to build nests for breeding after monsoon season. It is fascinating to watch nests of Open Bill Stork during the breeding season. Nest colonies of Egret and Heron species in areas close to the lakes are also a sight worth watching. Fatehsagar built by Maharana Jaisingh and renovated by Maharana Fatehsingh is another huge lake good for bird watching, especially near Rani Road where winter is not very deep and there are trees where birds can build nests. However, the noise of motor boats that disturbs the peace is a negative factor. Connected with Picchola lake is Rangsagar lake built by the erstwhile Maharanas and Swarup Sagar built by Maharana Swami Singh are other spots suitable for watching birds of various species. So also Jal Burz and Kalka Mota Nursery near Doodh Talai. This year early in November about 600 birds of different species such as Schoveller, Common Pochard, Pintail Common Teal Ibis, Common Coot, and Spotted Dove were spotted in Roop Sagar and Badi Lake near Udaipur. Rajsamand that overflowed this time after 8 years also had a good number of birds.

In lakes near Udaipur such as Ghasa, Mavli, Kadla Losing, Nandeshwar, Bhatewar can also be seen birds in large numbers. The lakes near Menar also attract a huge number of birds of several species. Dhand Talab has been a home to over 600 Grey-leg geese that have come from a distance of 6000 km. The special feature of lakes near Menar is that the villagers do not use the lake water for irrigation and do not allow people to pollute it. Groups of young men not only guide the tourists but also provide horses to them. They have put up tents for the tourists to stay in very intelligently they have found a new way of caring morning and at the same time promoting tourism.

Udaipur: Bird Lover's Paradise!
Source: on the high road

Udaipurities can now drive some 25 to 50 km away from the city, have an exciting close view of beautiful birds and spend an enjoyable day.

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Tourist Guides: Promoters of Tourism

In making Udaipur a big tourist destination, retaining its reputation and also in enhancing it several agencies are involved. The tourist department provides full information about the worth visiting places to the tourists. The forest department develops places like wildlife sanctuaries, bird park and biodiversity parks to attract more visitors whereas local bodies such as the Municipal Corporation and Urban Improvement Trusts try to maintain the important spots in and around the town properly. The hospitality industry treats the tourists in a way that they can enjoy their stay thoroughly. However, tourists guides who have an important role of their own in promoting tourism do not generally get the attention they deserve.

Tourist Guides: Promoters of Tourism
Suraj Soni

According to Suraj Soni (Bijoliya), a popular young tourist guide in Udaipur, a good guide can make things come alive and arouse feelings of tourists that no printed books of history etc. can ever do. Live interaction between the guide and his clients has a unique impact on the latter. However, integrity and authenticity of the guide is an important factor in the profession. No wonder Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar (Prince of Udaipur) advises the guides not to try to impress tourists with myths or common exaggeration but stick to facts. To be successful in their work, they should read a lot to keep their knowledge updated. In case they do not know something they should admit it frankly instead of dolling out wrong information that creates a negative impression about the country.

There are mainly four types of certified tourist guides. Green card holders can function in Udaipur and are certified by Govt. of Rajasthan. Red card holders who are certified by the Central Govt. can work in the four zones throughout the country while for yellow card holders the area is the whole of Rajasthan.Tourist Guides: Promoters of Tourism

The City Palace authorities select tourist guides on their own after taking tough tests and interviews, So far 300-350 guides have been certified after rigorous training that includes a thorough knowledge of the heritage, culture etc. They have to be properly dressed and disciplined. Their behavior is closely watched. A large number of security guards are also employed. In this way, the ‘House of Mewar’ supports a large number of families of guides and security guards. To keep the guides updated, workshops and lectures are organized regularly for which specializes in special fields such as history, culture, architecture, and behavioral psychology are invited.

About the traits of different kinds of tourists, Suraj Soni (Bijoliya) says that tourists from France are more interested in natural sites like lakes and want to know when they were dammed and in what way they are beneficial. Quite a few of them admire the floating palaces like Lake Palace, Jag Mandir, and Jag Niwas. Australian tourists are of reserved nature. They shop a lot without much bargaining. Visitors from South India ask a number of questions about history and shop a lot.Bengali tourist is well read and is curious to learn. Sometimes they tell the guides that they did not tell them certain things during their previous visit. They ask their children to listen carefully to the guide. Quite a few tourists from Gujarat like to know about the places where famous films were shot. Some tourists consider Haldighati a place of pilgrimage, kiss the earth and smear their head with the soil. There are others who want to know how Maharana Pratap’s small army was able to face Akbar’s huge forces. Tourists interested in architecture want to know who built the buildings, their style etc. whereas others are curious about how the fine arts like music and paintings flourished through the ages.Impressed by the magnificent paintings, especially the miniature ones, depicting battles, hunting, expeditions festivals etc, several tourists go in for their replicas. This has come as a big support for the dying art of painting in Udaipur. A small number of tourists show interest in spiritual personalities of Mewar like Chatursinghji and Meera Bai.Tourist Guides: Promoters of Tourism

Well mannered, disciplined, knowledgeable and honest tourist guides also contribute to the development of tourism in their own way.

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Festivals

Celebrate Basant Panchami in Udaipur

Celebrated with great religious fervor by Udaipurites, Basant Panchami is the day on which they believe worshiping goddess Saraswati would fulfill their desires. They consider her to be the goddess of all creative arts, knowledge, and wisdom. They also believe that she descended on the earth to make it a place full of joy with her power of speech and soothing music. All this makes her extremely venerable for scholars, writers, poets, musicians, and students of different arts. Her vehicle swan signifies good thoughts and pure knowledge. Her white clothes symbolize purity and chastity.

Celebrate Basant Panchami in Udaipur
Source: ayushdevapura

Since ancient times, festivals in our country have been linked with the change of seasons. There are six seasons viz Sharad, Hemant, Shishir, Grishma, Varsha, and Basant. Basant is considered to be the King of Seasons. It is a transitory period between summer and winter. The word, Basant shows that it is just the end of winter- ‘bas’ (just) and ‘ant’ (end). The weather is pleasant and one has a sense of relief after the severe winter. No wonder Lord Krishna says in Gita that among seasons. He is like Basant.

According to Sanskrit scholar, Vasudev Shastri, Basant Panchami has its origin right in the time when the universe was created and nothing existed. Lord Brahma went to Lord Vishnu and they had a long discussion. There was perfect silence everywhere. Brahma took out water from his ‘kamandal’ and sprinkled it all around Him. There were vibrations everywhere and suddenly appeared Saraswati who had miraculous powers. She had a ‘Veena’, and a book in her hands. She bowed before the two Lords. On instructions from Brahma, she made the atmosphere musical and joyous by playing on the ‘Veena’. To commemorate this event, Basant Panchami is celebrated with great enthusiasm not only in India but also in some other countries such as Nepal, Jawa, and Japan. Another legend says that right at the beginning of the creation of the universe the primordial power had divided itself into five parts as desired by the Supreme Lord- Radha, Padma, Savitri, and Saraswati. It is also believed that on this day Kamdev shot arrows at Lord Shiv to disturb Him in His ‘Samadhi’. Shiv was so infuriated that the opened His third eye and burnt Kamdev to ashes. It is also said that on this day Basant ‘raga’ came out of Lord Shiva’s mouth.

According to another Sanskrit scholar, Devendra Dave scriptures tell us that when Lord Ram was wandering in Dandkaranya forest in search of Sita, he met His great devotee Shabri who fed Him with berries that she first tasted herself and then gave to her Master. This incident took place on Basant Panchami.

According to the historian, Dr. Girish Mathur, Basant Panchami also reminds of a historical event about Prithviraj Chauhan who had defeated Mohammad Gauri 16 times but did not kill him. In the 17th battle between them, Chauhan was defeated, taken to Afghanistan as a prisoner and blinded. But before giving a life sentence, Gauri wanted to see how Chauhan used his Shabdban that was believed to hit the spot from which the sound originated. Through a couplet, poet  Chandrabardai gave a hint to Chauhan where Gauri was and Chauhan hit the target killing his foe. Then Chauhan and Chandrabardai killed one another.

According to historians, in earlier times, there were not many occasions for the entertainment of the public. The celebration of Basant Panchami started in the Maurya period and it became a popular festival at the time of the Guptas. It is celebrated in the form of big fairs in several places, especially north India in which farmers participate with great fervor.

Celebrate Basant Panchami in Udaipur
Source: NewIndianExpress

According to historian Rajendra Nath Purohit, Basant Panchami had an important place in the calendar of Mewar rulers. On this day the Maharana and his courtiers used to wear yellow clothes. A ‘durbar’ was held in the Rajmahal in which court poets recited poems on the Basant season before the Maharana. A programme of elephant fight was also organized.

Great Hindi poets like Suryakant Nirala say that at this time of the year the whole universe is in a joyous mood. The sweet-smelling flowers, the soothing breeze, the dancing peacocks, the cooing cuckoos, the verdant hills, the quietly flowing rivers, the clear sky and the soft rays of the sun make the environment highly enjoyable.

According to Vaidya Sabhalal Audichya, Basant is called Madhumas, the season of honey-like sweetness. The energy flows upwards in all the vegetation. Human beings are filled with energy and enthusiasm. The nights are short and the days longer. The sun shines more brightly. Astrologers, Dr. MS Alakhnanda,  say that the sun takes the direction of the north and so this period is called the period of gods. No wonder Basant Panchami is thus one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar when any ceremony can be performed. It is an ‘abhuja mahurat’ and one has no need to consult an astrologer for programmes such as marriage, ring ceremony, starting the construction of new houses, launching of a new business, ‘grihpravesh’ (housewarming) or ‘namkaran’ (giving names).

Basant Panchami would be celebrated with great enthusiasm in several temples spread all over the town. At the famous Jagdish Mandir, the festival would begin at 5.30 with ‘panchamrit snan’ and the Lord would wear a yellow dress, yellow ‘dupattas’, and yellow crown. During Rajbhog Aarti also, he would have a yellow robe and offered yellow flowers. The main gate and the whole temple would be decked with yellow flowers. In ‘bhog’ would be offered yellow colored rice. After Rajbhog, people would play with ‘abeer’ and ‘gulal’.

The idol of Shrinathji at the Shrinath Temple at Raoji ka Hata in Udaipur would wear white clothes throughout this month. The temple gets ‘abeer’ of three colors- red, pink and white from the main temple at Nathdwara and on Basant Panchami, it is sprinkled on the Lord’s dress and curtains. The singing of Basant songs begins on this day and continues till Falgun Ekadashi. The ‘kirtan’ starts with the singing of Ashtapadi composed by the famous poet Jaidev.

In the Asthal Mandir at Surajpole, the idols would be clad in yellow clothes. At about eight in the morning, there would be Mangal Aarti followed by Shringar Aarti. Ears of wheat plants, mustard flowers, and mango leaves would be offered. Rajbhog would include Kesaria Bhath. Basanti Bhajans would be sung by Asthal Mahila Bhakt Mandli.

Basant Panchami would be celebrated in a special way at the Baiji Raj Ka Kund Mandir, Delhi Gate where the idol would be draped in yellow clothes. The singing of Phag songs would also start. Several other temples such as Radhavallabh Mandir and Meetharamji Mandir would celebrate the festival in several fascinating ways.

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News

Made In Udaipur, The Song ‘Mann Satarangi’ Gets The Voice Of Swaroop Khan!

Published on SonyLIV, the song ‘Mann Satrangi’ is made in Udaipur. The entire video is shot in the City of Lakes at various locations that being an Udaipurite you can easily spot! The main point to notice in the video is that it is not just shot in Udaipur but also composed, arranged and produced by Udaipuites. The duo Bharat-Hitarth envisioned this and made it happen in the City of Lakes. Currently, placed in Mumbai the duo is making their name in the world of Indian Music Industry.

cast and crew of mann satrangi

It took 3 days to shoot the video at varied locations, from a village to a café and Pipliya Ji, in Udaipur. “It was a very smooth sailing project, apart from the weather conditions. It was raining on the day we shot in Pipliya Ji. And hence we had to shoot under an umbrella. The whole shoot went quite good and the result is in front of everyone”, says one of the team members.

The Indian Idol famed Swaroop Khan has sung this song and has made it even more mesmerizing with his rustic voice. The whole cast and crew of the video belongs to Udaipur and has played their roles beautifully and proficiently.

Udaipur has been a choice of many when it comes to shooting a video or a movie. Recently, the upcoming movie, Dadhak (starring Jhanvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khattar) was also shot in Udaipur. Due to the city’s suave landscape and beautiful lakes, Udaipur has become an ideal location.

You can watch the video of ‘Mann Satarangi’ on YouTube by clicking on the link: Mann Satrangi

Special mention to the cast, singer and all the people engaged in the making of the beautiful song.

Singer: Swaroop Khan

Composed, arranged and produced: Bharat-Hitarth (From UDAIPUR)

Lyrics Written By: Bharat Menaria 

Video Credits: (ALL FROM UDAIPUR)

Director: Samyak Tejawat

DoP: Jay Sharma

Cast: Nitika Jha, Poorvi Jhawar, Subhash Jain, Madhu Jain, Mamta Tejawat

Production Controller: Sahil Jain

Assist. Director: Bhavya Dave, Rimjhim Sharma

Assist. Camera: Akshay Jain

Production Assist: Kshitij Jain