Categories
Places to Visit

Bagheri ka Naka- A Perfect Place for Monsoon Getaway

It is rightly said that “ Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass…rather it’s more about learning to dance in the rain”. Usually, monsoons are considered dark and gloomy, which is absolutely a fallacy. And particularly if you are in Udaipur it cannot be monotonous, knowing that it is one of the best monsoon destinations in India.

People in Udaipur are always ready to fasten their seatbelts to hop on to the nearby areas during monsoon instead of merely sitting inside homes and sipping tea with pakoras. Monsoons are extremely pleasurable and one cannot make an omelette without breaking an egg, so get ready to get wet. 

bageri k naka

One such ideal place to visit during monsoon is Bagheri ka Naka which is a picnic spot for locals. Bagheri ka Naka is a small dam, nearly 50 km away from Udaipur in the Rajsamand district which is named after the village Bagheri. 

The place is a feast to the photographers’ eye, having lush green Aravali hills offering a perfect backdrop for the frame. The place usually gets flooded with people during rains when the water from the dam overflows. Moreover, it falls on the Udaipur-Kumbhalgarh lane which itself is a picturesque site where you can witness clouds kissing the mountains and thus a perfect place for a family getaway.

Do’s and Dont’s 

  • The place is in the interior of the village and you cannot find shops or good restaurants on the way or nearby area, hence it will be good to take food and some refreshment along.
  • The place is an excellent destination for photography enthusiasts, thus make sure that you do not forget to carry your camera or smartphones.
  • There is a pathway leading to the top of the dam, which offers a complete 360-degree view of the dam and the lake. It is suggested to wear comfortable trekking footwear so that you can easily climb the rocky track that leads to the dam.
  • Most people visit during monsoon to enjoy the overflow of water from the dam. Be cautious while you step in the water, since running water may cause a casualty.
  • Be very cautious while you step in the water, the base may be slippery which might cause you to fall. 
  • Special precautions must be taken if you are taking kids along, at the same time adults should be watchful during the time the dam overflows.Bageri ka Naka

Best Time to Visit

Monsoon is probably the best time to visit Bageri ka Naka because the dam overflows and that just doubles the beauty of this place. Locals usually prefer to visit during weekends but for a traveller, any day can be the best day.

How to reach

The place is nearly 50 km and a more than an hour ride from Udaipur since the roads are narrow and not very well developed. This place can also be reached from Nathadwara and is merely 31 km from there. Private cars or taxis are the best options, however, if you are a true adventurer you can travel through a bike as well.

Bageri ka Naka

location : 

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Bagheri+Ka+Naka+Dam/@24.9111505,73.5929667,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x396804dcc890fc0d:0xd57331becd16cc3f!8m2!3d24.9111457!4d73.5951554

Categories
Festivals

Krishna Janmashtmi 2019: Mewar’s way of Celebration

“नन्द के आनंद भयो, जय कन्हैया लाल की..!!”

“मुरली मनोहर श्री कृष्ण जी की जय..!!!”

With wide cultural diversity, religions, languages, and beliefs, we say India is not merely a country but a beautiful art piece blended with vibrant colours. In India, every other day is an event or a festival. One such festival is Krishna Janmashtmi, which is celebrated as birth anniversary of Lord Krishna and is observed with great vehemence. According to Hindu Mythology, Lord Krishna was born on the 8th day of Krishna paksha (called Ashtami) of Shravan month which usually falls in the months of August-September.

Krishna Janmashtmi

The story of Krishna is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of India and the people of this land revere him as divine. Lord Krishna is considered to be the eighth incarnation (avatar) of Lord Vishnu who took birth in a human embodiment to end all the evils and injustices. Krishna was the eighth son of king Vasudeva and Devaki and was born in prison, since his parents were captured and imprisoned by his uncle, Kansa. When Kansa identified that his sister Devaki’s child Krishna would become the cause of his death, he wanted to kill him to eliminate the root cause. Hence, after his birth, he was secretly sent to Nanda and Yashoda who then brought him up as their child.

Birth of Krishna

Krishna is known for his mischievousness, and since his childhood, he was very fond of Makkhan (Butter). Ancient Hindu tales reveal that he used to steal butter from his neighbour’s place and thus also called with the name “Makhan Chor”. To commemorate the birth of Shri Krishna this festival is also recognized as Dahi Handi Parv. During Janmashtmi a Matki Phod event is held at places wherever it is celebrated; in which a group of individuals build a human pyramid to reach the matki (earthen pot) which is hung at a certain height. In India, it is celebrated zealously in Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace of Krishna and in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and northeastern states of Assam and Manipur.

Makhan Chor

In Mewar region, Vaishnavas consider it as the most important religious festival because it marks the victory of good over evil. In Udaipur, the festival is celebrated in a way that showcases the typical Mewari culture. Several cultural activities are performed in different regions of Udaipur, but the most prominent and renowned one is held at Jagdish Chowk. The Dahi Handi event at Jagdish Temple is the biggest and renowned not only among locals but also visitors. Since Udaipur is a famous tourist destination many foreigners also love to attend this fest and witness this phenomenal event.

Dahi handi at jagdish chowk

Dahi Handi Event

Dahi Handi Event

In Mewar region, people usually keep fast and open it the next day or after midnight because Krishna was born at midnight. Devotees believe that Krishna will be born at midnight and thus they should eat only after his birth. In India, you can’t say it’s a festival unless special sweets are prepared, and Chappan Bhog is one for which Krishna Janmashtmi is famous for. ‘Chappan Bhog’ is a cluster of 56 dishes which is offered to God on the following day, which is known as ‘Nanda Utsav.’ After the offering, the food or Prasad is then distributed and shared among devotees so they can end their fast. Lord Krishna is also known as ‘Makhan Chor’ or “Laddu Gopal” or “Baal Gopal” and called with numerous other names. Since he was very fond of butter and milk, the Bhog mainly include dishes of milk like Makhan mishri (milk cake), rabri, rasgulla, murabba, saag, khichdi, milk, dry fruits, etc.

Chappan Bhog

Idols of Lord Krishna is adorned with news clothes and ornaments. The idol is placed in a swing called “Jhulaa,” which is also a part of the ritual. Then it is placed in a cradle to symbolize his birth. Women also draw tiny footprints walking towards their house, as a symbol for Krishna’s journey into their homes.

The bustling crowd at Jagdish Chowk, the colorful attires, the chants of “Haathi Godaa Palki Jai Kanhaiya Laal Ki”, the sweets made of milk and cream, pink-colored Gulal in the air, everything you see around is so enticing that one could easily forget the troubles of life and embrace the festive vibes with both arms open.

  

Udaipurblog wishes a very happy and joyous Krishna Janmashtmi to all its readers!!!

जय श्री कृष्णा..!!!  

Categories
News

40 Day Long Gavri Fest begins with the onset of Monsoon in Udaipur

Once again, Gavri, the famous folk dance-drama fest has commenced with the advent of monsoon in Udaipur. A 40 day long festival of the Bheel tribe initiated from 16th August. The folk dance includes people from all ages starting from 8 to 80’s, who will dance and play to please the Goddess. During the Gavri festival, the Bheel community usually performs invocation rituals, which are conducted in Shravan month of hindu calendar; and thus the fest mostly falls in the months of August-September.

It may be noted that during the 40-day Gavari season not only the players avoid alcohol, meat and sex but also avoid wearing shoes, beds, bathing, and eating greens (which they believe might harm insects).  Also, some of the tribes observe fast on the “paancham” and “saatam” while the tribes of Bedla region have pledged to fast for the entire 40 days of celebrations. The Gavri troupes will uncross several regions while giving performances at different T-points of the town.

Categories
Events

For those who missed Udaipur Food Drive season 3: Everything you want to know

There is no sincere love than the love of food.”  – George Bernard Shaw

Most people cherish monsoons because of its rain and the heart-pleasing weather, while there are others, like me who crave, crave and just crave for food. UdaipurBlog knowing this, successfully conducted the most awaited event Udaipur Food Drive 2019, which was its 3rd edition. Also, UdaipurBlog which has always nurtured innovative ideas to bring people together, be it ULF (Udaipur light festival), UBPhotowalk, fashion contest, or any other event, the central idea has remained the same for years – let’s connect.

Udaipur Blog

 Food Drive (“food+drive”) is one such amazing event which provides a platform for food enthusiasts to connect & share their experiences, amazing food journeys, and explore the unexplored world of flavors.

Let’s know how this started- 

It was a Saturday evening, and the Udaipur folks were in a weekend mood. The sun was playing hide and seek with clouds, while the drizzling rain was in no mood to stop even for a while, whereas the clouds were resting on every big and small hill around Udaipur to make people come out of their houses and get selfies with them. This was the time when team UdaipurBlog was uniting people from all spheres of life to share a common table and feast on toothsome food at different corners of the town.

Our first stop was Twist Bar and Lounge. This spectacular place is located near Shobhagpura circle and offers the perfect ambience for anyone looking to hang out with friends and family. In no time, the place was occupied with more than 40 food lovers, all excited and ready to eat. Soon the staff at Twist emerged with the food which not only tasted heavenly but also looked spectacular. Everywhere you could see was people eagerly waiting to grab a quick bite.

Twist Bar & Lounge

Foodies

Next we drove to The Bungalow, a multi-cuisine restaurant located near Sukhadia Circle. The much-needed warmth due to the rainy season was provided, not only by the place’s ambiance but also the service and humbleness of the staff. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a welcome drink. After a small introduction about the place and its history, the food was served. The fusion of different cuisines definitely caught our attention but the Veg Pad Thai Noodles, in particular, stole our hearts.  

Food at The Bungalow

Indian-Continental food

The Bungalow Udaipur

It’s said that ‘all is well that ends well’, and our last destination did just that. Panna Vilas Rooftop Restaurant  is a beautiful property that offers a mesmerizing view of Lake Fateh Sagar. The alluring ambience of the place was complemented with the flavorful food that was served. The Chicken Banjara, which they say is the queen of their menu, took the limelight. The tandoori aroma was enough to trigger the mood and taste buds of all foodies. No doubt, the food was sumptuous together with the atmosphere it offered.

When the weather is on its full charm and the soul is filled with so many flavors, how could one forget to seize the moment? All the attendees flooded their phones and cameras with hundreds and thousands of selfies and images of food, beautiful faces in binging mood and of course the picturesque views. Here are some of the memories compiled for you:

Food Craving

Food at Twist restaurant

Food and view

Foodies

Categories
News

Get your driving licence and vehicle registration letter (RC) at your Doorstep

According to recent directives issued by the Government, the transport department will be dispatching driving licences and vehicle registration certificates directly at the applicant’s postal address. Just like passports, people now are no more required to visit the transport office a multiple number of times to collect their documents.

The increasing intervention of middle-men and agents create hassles, and as such, the step has been taken to avoid troubles faced by consumers. The directives were issued on 1st of August, following which the Udaipur Transport Department has enforced the same from 7th August Wednesday.

Applicants are required to give the exact postal address for the delivery of their certificates. If the address is found to be incorrect or incomplete, the post will return to the RTO office.

Categories
News

Rajasthan Government won the battle of possession of historic Udaipur House in New Delhi

Rajasthan government’s long-awaited battle for the possession of historic Udaipur House in New Delhi has come to rest with the recent directives of Supreme Court. The property is situated near the Tees Hazari court at Civil Lines in Delhi. The Historic building was built before Independence by the then ruling Maharana of Mewar, which was occupied by Delhi government post-independence.

The majestic building is sprawling over 12000 meters of land at a prime location of Delhi, whose current worth is evaluated around 1500 crore. Before Independence, when Luteyn’s  Delhi was being designed, the property was built by Udaipur’s Royal family. That time the British asked the Maharana of Udaipur to build a mansion in Delhi like other princely houses.

The Udaipur House, Delhi

Post-independence Delhi government was granted the possession only for use. However, in 2010, Ashok Gehlot, the then Chief Minister of Rajasthan held talks with Delhi government to hand over the property back to Rajasthan, but the plea was declined. Following which the government took the issue to Supreme Court.

Recently Supreme Court issued directives to both the governments to settle the issue. After which a meeting among the representatives from Rajasthan and Delhi was held, where it was decided to hand over the property to Rajasthan government.

 

Categories
Festivals

Hariyali Amavasya Mela 2019: Udaipur’s way of welcoming Monsoon

If you have ever heard about Udaipur, its culture and traditions, there are hardly any chances you haven’t heard about the Mela (fair) of Hariyali Amavasya. Hariyali means greenery while Amavasya refers to the no-moon day as per Hindi terminology. It is a festival to rejoice rains due to which the earth gets covered with a blanket of greenery. Every year this festival is celebrated with high energy and enthusiasm in the Mewar region. There are many rituals associated with this fest, and people in Northern states of India celebrates this with great fervor.

Hariyali Amavasya Mela 2019
Credits: Siddarth Nagar

 

As it is a known fact that rains are considered as blessings of God and to show gratitude towards nature and its blessings, people celebrate Hariyali Amavasya to welcome the onset of monsoon. Like Rajasthan it is also celebrated in other Northern states of India such as Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Maharashtra. In Maharashtra it is celebrated as ‘Gatari Amavasya’, in Andhra Pradesh as ‘Chukkala Amavasya’ and in Orissa it is known as ‘Chitalagi Amavasya’. As with the names, the rituals and traditions vary in different parts of the country, but the spirit of celebrations remains same.

Hariyali Amavasya Mela 2019
Credits: Siddarth Nagar

Being an Udaipurite I still remember, how eagerly as kids we used to wait for this day. The chief thing that attracted us the most about this festival was the Mela (fair) and which still is. We eagerly used to wait for this day which was marked by a school holiday and it was customary to visit the fair to enjoy rides and food with family. Everywhere you could see, are the vibrant colors, the bustling crowd and the vendors shouting out loud. While the women folks mainly loved to shop at the fair stalls, however, we as kids would make it sure not to miss out any of the rides and food was ofcourse our motto of life. The interesting part is, still after so many years nothing has really changed except the climatic changes.

 

Hariyali Amavasya Mela 2019
Credits: Siddarth Nagar

Let’s know some interesting facts about this Mela:

  • It is believed that the first Hariyali Amavasya Mela was set up by Maharana Fateh Singh, to celebrate the completion of a reservoir near Dewali pond, which eventually became a tradition and is still continuing.
  • Hariyali Amavasya is a two day celebration where the last day is usually reserved for women.
  • Like any other festival, this festive fair is not confined to a particular religion but gathers people from all the religion, class and castes which is certainly a mark of cultural integration.
  • The famous dish of Rabdi-Malpua is the showstopper of this mela. Most people just visit to palate the renowned dish which is also considered as a monsoon cuisine by locals.
  • Public places such as Moti Magri, Saheliyon ki Baari etc which usually have an entrance fee during other days of the year are kept free for these two days.
  • The Mela is more of interest to the tribals and rural crowd near Udaipur region, who comes up in huge crowd in traditional costumes and jewelry.
  • Also elderly folks of this region have a strong belief, that it will definitely rain on the day of Hariyali Amavasya.
  • The wooden sword wrapped with colorful papers, a colorful feathered hat and small trumpets of paper called Poopadi in native language are the souvenirs which validate your presence at Mela.
  • Women collectively pray for good rainfall and bountiful harvest.
  • Green is the color of the day and ladies in the Mewar region wear green which represent their love for nature.
  • Several schools and social groups & organizations celebrate it a day before, organizing cultural programs.
  • It is considered auspicious to plant a sapling on this day which is also having religious significance as per Hindu community.

This year Hariyali Amavasya will be observed on 1st of August, which will also be a collector declared holiday for schools, colleges and all government organizations. Observing the increasing popularity of this festival among domestic and international tourists,efforts are also made by Municipal Corporation of Udaipur to have this historic fair registered in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Hariyali Amavasya Mela 2019
Credits: Siddarth Nagar

While the festival is the time to rejuvenate and rejoice, there is an increasing threat as well from past few year, about depleting rainfall and vanishing forests in the Aravali region. As true Udaipurites lets join hands to protect our environment and trees so that our future generations could also enjoy this historic Mela.