Indian Columbus

In the realm of India's wax museums, both grand and modest, one stands out as a pioneer in its league. Enter the enchanting world of Mother's Wax Museum (MWM), nestled in the heart of New Town, Kolkata. Established in November 2014, MWM proudly holds the title of India's first full-fledged wax museum, inspired by the iconic Madame Tussauds. Named in honor of the beloved Mother Teresa, this museum began its journey with a modest collection of 19 wax statues. However, with each passing day, it has bloomed into a treasure trove, now boasting over 100 lifelike sculptures. What sets MWM apart is its unwavering commitment to realism—each statue meticulously crafted to mirror its real-life counterpart. Among the diverse array of personalities immortalized in wax, MWM showcases a distinctive collection of Bengal's own luminaries. From the stalwarts of India's freedom movement like Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, to the revered poets and philosophers of Bengal such as

In the heart of New Delhi rises the majestic 42-meter-high India Gate, positioned at the convergence of crossroads. This iconic structure stands as a solemn tribute to the 74,187 Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice fighting for the British Army during World War I. It also honors the memory of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers who lost their lives in the Afghan war of 1919 along the Northwestern Frontier. Designed by Edwin Lutyens and inaugurated in 1931, India Gate's foundation stone was laid by the Duke of Connaught, in 1921. Originally known as the All-India War Memorial, this monumental arch became a symbol of India's capital, with its formal dedication coinciding with the declaration of New Delhi as the nation's capital. A poignant addition, the Amar Jawan Jyoti eternal flame, was later included post-independence to honor the soldiers who fell during the Indo-Pakistan War of December 1971. Built upon a base of red Bharatpur stone, the grand arch r

Continuing our enthralling journey through the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple in Tirunelveli, we now turn our gaze towards the east-side frontside mandapa. Positioned at the gateway to the sanctum of Nellaiyappar, we are greeted by two pairs of captivating sculptures that weave tales of ancient legends and heroic deeds. Having explored the sculptures of Pagadai Raja and Veerabhadra on the southern side entrance in previous articles, let us now delve into the narratives depicted on the northern side of the main entrance, leading to the sanctum and two prakaras. Our eyes are drawn to the majestic figures of Karna and Arjuna, standing tall and resplendent on the huge pillars. Born of the same mother, they were destined for a bond of brotherhood, yet fate ordained them as rivals in the grand epic of the Mahabharata. Karna, the formidable warrior, is depicted in all his glory, adorned with numerous ornaments that speak of his regal lineage. With a sharp moustache framing his determine

Chetpet Eco Park offers an array of delights for all who visit its serene grounds. Spanning 16 acres, with a picturesque 9-acre lake, this oasis is under the care of the Department of Fisheries, formally inaugurated in February 2016. Delving into its history, we find that the roots of this park trace back to the early 1900s, when Sir Frederick Nicholson and Sir Alfred Chatterton envisioned industrialization for the Madras Presidency. Nicholson championed fisheries, leading to the eventual stewardship of Chetpet lake by the Fisheries Department in the 1930s. The journey towards the park's eco-restoration began in the early 2000s, gaining momentum after Chief Minister Jayalalithaa's announcement in April 2013, earmarking ₹42 crore for the project. Today, the lake, with a current depth of 13 feet, owes its replenishment to a tertiary sewage treatment plant, releasing 20,000 litres of treated water daily. As visitors meander along the pathways, they are greeted by a verdant landsca

Experience the New Kolkata - a vibrant city pulsating with energy and life, embodied in the remarkable Eco Park. Nestled across 480 acres of land and the adjoining waterbody in New Town, this park emerged as a beacon of eco-consciousness on 29th December 2012, marking a new era of recreation and adventure in the Eastern region of India. Eco Park welcomes morning walkers, offering a refreshing start to the day amidst its lush greenery and tranquil ambience. Here, visitors discover a world of unique experiences, starting with the one-of-a-kind duo-cycles where both riders pedal together, creating moments of joy and laughter. For those seeking an eco-friendly adventure, cycling through the park's pathways with friends or family is an unparalleled experience. Inhale the crisp, fresh air as you pedal past picturesque landscapes, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings. Hop aboard the mini blue toy train that traverses the park's pathways, offering enchanting views of the lake

Krishna, a name that resonates with the color black in Sanskrit, embodies charm and allure. His divine form, adorned in the captivating hue, playing the flute, captivates the hearts of the Gopikas. Standing beside him on the altar is Radha, the foremost among the Gopikas, deeply enamored by Krishna's enchanting melodies. Flanking this divine couple are Lalita and Vishaka, two prominent Gopikas among eight companions (Ashta Gopis), equally drawn to the irresistible charm of Krishna. This sacred depiction forms the heart of the Radha Parthasarathi temple, fondly known as the ISKCON temple, nestled in the serene surroundings of East of Kailash in Delhi. Not only do the Gopikas surrender themselves to the Lord of the most beautiful things, namely Krishna, but even his devotees find solace and devotion in his divine presence. Another shrine depicts Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Nityananda joyfully dancing and singing Keertans of Krishna. Their exuberance and devotion are palpable in the intr