The Wizard of Needles’ screened

‘A documentary ‘The Wizard of Needles’ was screened in Indian Habitat Centre. Journalist, Deepak Parvatiyar who tried to show something different, so came up with a unique concept, and so screened his movie before a distinguished gathering in IHC, directed the documentary.

The documentary was directed, scripted and edited by Deepak Parvatiyar and is his directorial venture. The story revolves around a blind man Anil Kumar who perfects the art and science of inserting needles to heal others. The inspiring story talks about how physical disabilities cannot be a deterrent to one’s achievement and ambition to serve the humankind.

Ms. Naini Jayaseelan, senior advisor at the Planning Commission was the chief guest to grace the occasion. The other eminent guests present on the occasion were Rear Admiral (Retd) HC Malhtora; Deepak Mishra, IPS and Delhi's Joint Commissioner of Police; Suresh Srivastava, Secretary General, Indian Federation of United Nations Association;  Mohan Garg, Patron Trustee, Maharaja Agrasen Hospital, New Delhi; Dr Samar Verma, Executive Director of Centre for Trade and Development , a Delhi-based regional think tank, Dr Rajesh Sinha, renowned eye surgeon from AIIMS and Managing Editor of Delhi Journal of Ophthalmology.

Monuments: Must watch in Bhubhaneshwar

Udaigiri and Khandagiri Caves

The twin mountain caves, Khandagiri and Udaigiri, attract people from the globe to have a peaceful meditation. These caves are believed to be built in 1st century AD. The Dhauli is a place for spiritual devotion and eternal manifestation.

Dhauli

The Dhauli hill brings back memories of the historic 'Kalinga war' which was fought around here. It is here that Ashoka, the terrible, was transformed into Ashoka, the compassionate and championed the cause of Buddhism. On the foot of the hill one can see the Rock Edicts of Ashoka and the forepart of a skillfully sculpted elephant hewn out of a huge rock. Dhauli has gained prominence due to the establishment of a Buddhist Peace Pagoda, popularly known as Shanti Stupa, built in the early seventies.

Sisupalgarh

Just two km from the famed Lingaraj Temple of Bhubaneswar lie the ruins of Sisupalgarh. Dating back to the third or fourth century BC, these ruins show that even at that early date there was a well fortified city here, and establish the fact that the Orissan civilization has very ancient roots.

Hirapur

Hirapur has the 11th century Hypaethral temple of sixty four Yoginis. It is second of its kind in Orissa and one of four such unique temples in India.

Atri

Situated amidst greenery and famous for the hot sulphur water spring, Atri, 42 km. from Bhubaneswar and 14 km. from Khurda, is also a holy place with the shrine of Hatakeswar. A bath in the spring water is reputed to cure skin diseases apart from being a pleasant experience.

Cactus Garden

Cactus garden situated close to the 'Ekamara Kanan' in Bhubaneswar, the Cactus Garden, with its huge collection of Cactii should not be missed.

Orissa State Museum

Orissa State Museum is one of the best maintained museums in the country displaying varied objects of ancient origin. The exhibits include a rich collection of Buddhist and Jain sculptures, coins, and painted palm-leaf manuscripts etc.

Nandan Kanan Zoo

Nandan Kanan, the only biological park of Orissa has varieties of plants and animals. The other part, which is the Botanical Garden, is isolated from the zoo by a narrow lake that is meant for boating.

The animals like Tigers, Lions, European Black Bears, Grey Pelican, Pythons, King Cobra, Grey Pelicans, and Gorillas create a sense of curiosity in the mind of children. The place is only 20 kms from Bhubaneswar.

Temples in Bhubaneshwar

Lingaraj Temple

The Lingaraj temple is an 11th century monument and one of the outstanding specimens of Orissa style of temple building. It represents true Oriya style, where both sculpture and architecture have evolved in perfect harmony. The main deity here is Lord Shiva known as Tribhubaneswar from which the city takes its name.

The temple rises to a height of 55-m with dramatic vertical ribs. The temple’s large courtyard has more than 100 smaller shrines.

Vaital Deul temple

To the west of Bindusagar is the 8th century Vaital Deul temple with unusual interior carvings. The main deity here is an eight-armed Chamunda (a form of Durga) with a garland of skulls.

Parasurameshwar Temple

Built in 7th century, the Parasurameshwar Temple is one of the best preserved and lavishly sculpted groups of temples in Orissa. The square-towered shrine has a rectangular Jagamohan adjoining it. You can see wonderfully animated images of dancers and musicians on its west window.

Mukteshwar Temple

The 10th century Mukteshwar Temple is one of the jewels of Orissan temple architecture. It is famous for its exquisite sculptures and elegant proportions. A unique feature of this temple is its decorated ceiling. The female figures are remarkable for their expressive faces.

Rajarani Temple

This 11th century temple has a special significance in its architectural style. It has striking spire decorated with miniature replicas of it. The temple is noted for sculptures of dikpals (the guardians of the eight cardinal directions) perched on lotus flowers. The tall and slender female figures are carved on the walls with high relief.

Konark temple

Konark is famous worldwide for its magnificent Sun Temple. This is one of the best stunning monuments of the country, also famous for its architectural excellence. The temple was built by Narasingha Dev in the 13th century AD. This massive structure also called Black Pagoda is situated at a distance of 2 km from the sea in sand covered solitude. The entire temple is built in the form of colossal chariot, mark of god Sun god considered to be source of all energies. This pioneer structure is nearest to Bhubaneswar.

Guide to the City of Temples

Bhubaneswar, the capital of Orissa, is also popularly known as the "Temple City of India". Being the seat of Tribhubaneswar or 'Lord Lingaraj', Bhubaneswar is an important Hindu pilgrimage centre. Hundreds of temples dot the landscape of the Old Town, which once boasted of more than 2000 temples. Bhubaneswar, Capital of Orissa, is known for its splendid Buddhist and Hindu temples. "Bhubaneswar" means the "abode of God" or "master of the universe". Appropriately enough, it is called "The city of temples" : the city once boasted over 7,000 temples, though in modern times that number has decreased to a still impressive 500. Most famous is the Lingaraj Temple, featuring an ornately carved spire that is 40 meters high. It is the temple of Shiva, the destroyer. Others include the 10th century Mukteshwar Temple and 11th century Raja Rani Temple.

The Bhubaneswar township is established in the year 1950s However Bhubaneswar has the history of thousand years. Lingarj Temple and the areas are popularly known as old town. Posh locality like Saheed Nagar and Forest Park which has palacial bunglows have their own culture and life style.

Bhubaneswar can be visited at anytime of the year. The period between mid-September and mid-March is considered as the tourist season when the sun is bright and warm, the sky is blue, the air is cool and the weather is generally pleasant. There is a happy encounter of past and present in this temple town which has a history of about 2500 years.

How to Reach Bhubaneshwar

Bhubaneswar is well connected by air, rail and road to the rest of India. The modern Biju Patnaik airport is being extended to receive wide bodied aircraft, and one may well see international charters landing here soon.

Stay: With numerous hotels as well as the Orissa Tourism Development Corporation's Panthanivas, Bhubaneswar is well equipped to accommodate every type of visitor. The list of the major hotels with their phone numbers is here.

Handicraft: Silver filigree, Stone and Wood carving, Patta paintings, Tie and Dye textiles, bamboo basketry, brass and bell metal work, horn work, and many other famous handicrafts of Orissa can be selected as souvenirs from the local markets.

ANTI OBESITY AND BEAUTY EXTRAVAGANZA

Anti Obesity workshops and Beauty Extravaganza organized at Eleganza Rejuvenation Clinic from  in Rajouri Garden under the supervision of Dr. Seema Malik, MD Eleganza.

The mega anti-obesity and beauty workshops with free beauty trials and skin analysis providing expert advice, awareness campaign, beauty hampers, beauty facial packages, complete makeovers.

The beauty extravaganza at Eleganza also aims to present a complete beauty n fitness solution system towards attaining good health and fitness, be it healthy lifestyle and dieting, the health issues concerning people of different age groups.

The special focus would be on summer skin care and summer facials with knowledge of right beauty products according to the skin type. A special emphasis would be given on all modern age beauty therapies like botox, fillers, permanent makeup, mini liposuctions, and permanent hair removal.

Participants would also be guided by new beauty therapies like the very new MESOTHERAPY which can prove to be a boon in the treatment for eliminating cellulite instantly in no time, the therapy is the best for people who want to reduce inches instantly. The therapy not only promotes weight loss but also provides anti aging beauty enhancements and helps in eliminating localized fat deposits. That means weight loss can be targeted at specific body parts such as the tummy, love handles, butt, thighs and flabby arms.

Eleganza Skin Clinic also has its presence in Hauz Khas, Noida and Gurgaon.

DUTA ON MARCH

Delhi University Teacher’s Association came out on the streets of ITO against the Vice Chancellor of University of Delhi, Prof. Deepak Pental for his arrest and possession of all the documents pertaining to the sale of Gamma Irradiator containing radioactive Cobalt-60 as scrap. The march was held on July 8 from the Indian Institute of Public Administration to the Delhi Police Headquarters demanding Pental’s arrest.

More than two months have passed since the source of the radiation leakage leading to death of a person, hospitalization of some others and exposure of many others to radiation in Mayapuri became known. No action against the guilty for such a criminal act has yet been taken. 

The President, vice-president, secretary and other members of DUTA took part in the march. The DUTA also made new allegations of financial impropriety against the V-C and demanded a CBI probe. There was a huge traffic chaos on the roads. “There are apprehensions that the matter is being hushed up because Pental is the Vice Chancellor,” said the press note distributed by DUTA.

FALICITATION OF THE CONSTABLES FOR THEIR BRAVERY

Ct. Parveen Kumar, Ct. Sanjeev Kumar and Ct. Parmod were honored for their bravery in D.I Khan Senior Secondary School; New Rajinder Nagar.The three fearless and brave constables were responsible for saving Sanjay Gulani who was attacked by a robber.

The constables were on patrolling duty nearby when they heard the noise and rushed to the spot where the robber was trying to flee on the motorcycle. The constables above got hold of him and in this chaos attacked Ct.Parveen Kumar with a chef knife. The function was organized in honor of their bravery and dedication in discharge of their official duty.

MLA of New Rajinder Nagar, Ramakant Goswami, ASI Satnam Arora, Division Officer Om Prakash and SHO Karol Bagh Zone, Ramesh Chand was also present to honor the constables and grace the programme.

A LUNCH ORGANIZED IN SANATAN DHARM MANDIR

A lunch was organized  by P&RPA (Pensioners & Retired Persons Association) in the premises of Sanatan Dharma Mandir, Prem Nagar to facilitate their members those who went on trips. The trips were organized to Amritsar, Kullu-manali, Dharamshala, Dalhousie and Europe too.

The Programme was narrated by the Chair-person Ram Singh who also addressed the guests. He started with the 'shlokas' of Ramayana and Mahabharata followed by the introduction of the working committee of the organization by the General Secretary I.S.Hora.

The lunch was organized to express their greetings for old and retired members who spend their time with their friends on these occasional trips and tried to get a break of their daily lives and family. The members also performed and showed their interest in singing, dancing and cracking jokes. The lunch includes the serving of snacks during the programme and lunch both veg & non-veg in the menu.    

PLANTATION DRIVE IN JANAKPURI

The plantation drive was organized by Janakpuri A-3 welfare association The initiative of planting saplings was taken by the RWA advisor S.S.Duggal.

The efforts towards a green city were made through this plantation drive. MCD councilor Promilla Ghai was invited as the chief guest for the occasion. She addressed the other guests and the citizens and said “I am feeling honoured to be a part of this programme. I assure that every park of this area will be clean and green from now onwards.” RWA Advisor S.S. Duggal said, “We will participate and do our best to promote this plantation drive.”

About 125 plant species and best were sown and planted. Various species like Bottle-palm, Fichus, Neem, etc.

The programme included the presence of various RWA members including Satpal Singh, K.K. Mohla, Y.P. Manchanda, Ashok Puri, Pradeep Sehajpal, Surender Singh Maakan, etc.

WORKSHOP

Dr. Sunil Vaid, Child Specialist, education psychologist & author of the book “Learn to S.L.A.P your child” organized a workshop on how good parent you at Rajdhani Enclave society, pitampura on parents’ day. In this workshop more than 100 local people participated. It started at morning and end in the evening. The purpose was to, let’s "How to be a good Parent.

 He also launched a book after the seminar. Telling about his book, “I am not a prehistoric monster, a single eye in the centre of my forehead, nor am I an orthodox oldie, stuck in the 19th century, nor a sadistic bully who enjoys hitting a helpless child. On the Contrary I'm a pretty rational & reasonable person, who detests raising his hand on anybody, most of all a small kid. Given a choice I would put a ban on corporal punishment, of course along with certain other things that lead us to it.”

This book serves as a furnace to forge the parent through a system of disciplined parenting that would make their relationship with their child, so discerning that they would never have to use a physical / psychological slap. As a symbolic gesture, this system is termed - S.L.A.P. - full form of which would be – ‘Selective & Logical Award & Punishment’.

Finally, the Workshop threads together the thought that be a coach to your child in path of their life & embellish your child as a successful personality.

Bhubaneswar: The City of Temples

For as much as I have seen in this short span in and around Bhubaneswar, I do believe it is representative of a piece of culture that Orissa as a whole as to offer. Essentially, the golden triangle of Bhubaneswar, Konark and Puri is quite a handful for soaking the culture and character of Orissa. Visit the ancient city of Bhubaneswar (Bhuban being the world and Ishwar God) and it is a walk down centuries of temple architecture. It is probably the only city that provides an authentic overview of the stages of development of Hindu religious architecture. Once the capital of an ancient kingdom, the city still reverberates with the echoes of the past amidst its bustling modernity.  


So I got the opportunity to explore Bhubaneswar; the political and cultural capital of Orissa. I first went to Dhauli and saw Ashoka Rock Edict. It stands as a testimony of the famous Kalinga war fought here by the river Daya back in 261 BC that changed Emperor Ashoka to an apostle of peace. It is at a distance of 8km from Bhubaneswar on the Puri road. 


Then I went to the Lingaraj Temple. It is a magnificent monument dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Lingaraj temple is an 11th century monument and one of the outstanding specimens of Orissa style of temple building. It represents true Oriya style, where both sculpture and architecture have evolved in perfect harmony. Then we went to Mukteswar temple. This 10th century monument is near the Lingaraja temple. It is famous for the stone arch and sculptures depicting stories from Panchatantra and is considered the gem of Orissa Temple Architecture. 


Then my visit was to Bindu Sagar Lake; Literally meaning "ocean drop". This large tank is located at the centre of the old Bhubaneshwar city. Pilgrims flock to take a dip in the lake which is supposed to wash away their sins. Then I was mesmerised seeing  The 11th century Brahmeswara temple; situated amidst calm, green surroundings, at the outskirts of the city. Considered the abode of Brahma, the elaborate ribbed architecture of the temple shows dancing women and Orissa lions attractively carved on the exterior walls. 


My next destination was the Orissa State Museum. This museum has a splendid collection of stone sculptures, patta paintings, brass castings, horn toys and famous filigree. The twin hills of Khandagiri and Udaygiri are filled with ancient Jain caves cut from the rocks, which seem to form a honeycomb. These caves were carved out during 1st and 2nd century BC to serve as human habitations for the ruler of Kalinga and his queens.  The Hathi Gupha, the Elephant cave, records the life chronicle of King Kharavada, the first Oriya ruler, responsible for the expansion of the Kalinga Empire. The entrances to the temples are decorated with ancient Pali inscriptions. Khandagiri has a series of cave temples belonging to the Hindu and Jain faiths. 


My next stay was at the Parasurameswara Temple. Built in 650 AD this is one of the earliest temples of Bhubaneshwar. This temple built in the Kalinga style of temple architecture was dedicated to Lord Shiva but there are images of Lord Vishnu, Yama, Surya and seven Mother Goddesses. Also the Swaranajaleswara temple. Built in a similar style, the motifs on the walls however differ, depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Most beautiful was the Raja Rani Temple. Set amidst picturesque surroundings, this 11th century structure is graceful, elegant and unusual due to the absence of any deity. 
Then I wished to explore the wildlife. So my next destination was the famous Nandan Kanan Biological Par. Situated between Bhubaneshwar and Cuttack, Nandan Kanan is a patch of undulating and sylvan forest, flanked by the beautiful Kanjia Lake. It has a rich collection of animals, birds, reptiles including the white tiger, black panther and gharials. I also visited the hot springs of Atri. 


On the concluding part of my trip, I went to see Konark temple. It is about 60 km from Bhubaneswar. Konark is famous worldwide for its magnificent Sun Temple. This is one of the best stunning monuments of the country, also famous for its architectural excellence. The temple was built by Narasingha Dev in the 13th century AD. This massive structure also called Black Pagoda.

Diwali Festival

The origin of Diwali festival is not known, but it has gathered a number of legends around it over the centuries. In the northern and the western regions of India, its origin is attributed to the return of Lord Ram to his kingdom after defeating the demon king Ravana. The joyous people of Ayodhya, his capital, celebrated his arrival. In the eastern states, Diwali is associated with the story of Narakasura who had menaced his people with tyranny.

In the regions of Maharashtra and Mysore, Diwali is linked with the legendary king Bali who was immensely popular with his subjects for his generosity. However, king Bali had become arrogant and conceited, and provoked the wrath of godly people. His generosity was put to test by Lord Vishnu who appeared in the disguise of a dwarf, and asked him for a piece of land equal to three steps. When Bali granted his wish, Lord Vishnu took the form of a super giant person, and with his two steps covered Bali's entire kingdom. With his third step he pushed Bali to the underland. Since then, his people celebrated his arrival on this day, locally called Bali Padyami.

In the north, most communities observe the custom of lighting lamps. However, in the south, the custom of lighting baked earthen lamps is not so much part of this festival as it is of the Karthikai celebrations a fortnight later. The lights signify a welcome to prosperity in the form of Lakshmi, and the fireworks are supposed to scare away evil spirits.

In Punjab, the day following Diwali is known as tikka when sisters make a paste with saffron and rice and place an auspicious mark on their brother's foreheads as a symbolic gesture to ward off all harm.

Likewise, on the second day of the month of Kartik, the people of Maharashtra exchange gifts. In Maharashtra, it is the thirteenth day of Ashwin, the trayodasi, that is observed as a festival commemorating a young prince whom Yama, the God of Death, had claimed four days after his marriage. Filled, however, with compassion for the luckless youth, the legend goes, Yama promised that those who observed the day would be spared untimely death-and so the lamps that are lit to mark the festival are placed facing south, unlike on other festive days, because south is the direction mythologically assigned to Yama.

For the Bengalis, it is the time to worship Goddess Kali , yet another form of Durga, the divine embodiment of supreme energy. Kali is the Goddess who takes away darkness. She cuts down all impurities, consumes all iniquities, purifies Her devotees with the sincerity of her love.

Punjabi Academy

Punjabi Academy, Govt. of Delhi organized ‘Kahani Darbar’  at Bhai Vir Singh Sahit Sadan, near Gole market. The event was held to promote the Punjabi literature and poetry through short stories by Shri Bhola Singh Sanghera and Shri Bhagwant Rasoolpuri.

Shri Sanghera, an established Punjabi writer started the event with his story named ‘Sibo’, which talked about a scheduled class village girl. The event was followed by  Shri Rasoolpuri, who has given contemporary fiction a new flavour and introduced his story named 'Jarh'(roots) which talked about the  struggle of the down trodden Dalit people to liberate their self from the clutches of discrimination.

"Punjabi short story writing is quite a complex art and deserves much more appreciation and recognition today,” said Dr Rawail Singh, Secretary, Punjabi Academy. The two faces of Punjab narrated their stories and were highly appreciated.

“I loved the way Rasoolpuri has wrapped the fears of a discriminated individual in his perceptive writing,” said Dr.Narendra Mohan, a famous Hindi poet.

Wedding Venues

A wedding is the ceremony in which two people come together and tie up the knot of their life long relationship.

Wedding traditions and customs vary greatly between cultures, groups, religions, countries, and classes. Most wedding ceremonies start with functions and they keep going on for that purpose wedding venues plays an important role.

On the day of the wedding, everyone wants everything to be perfect or probably close to perfect. And that includes the perfect planning and execution for the wedding. One of the most difficult decisions to be making is that you will have to pick the wedding venue for your big day. The venue for the wedding is very important because only it sets the mood of wedding. And the most important thing is that it will be very special for both bride and groom.

Many wedding couples choose to have separate wedding venues. Perhaps they want the main day ceremony to be done in a more sober atmosphere and then another wedding venue for their reception. Some want to cut down the budget and just decide both main ceremony and reception on one wedding venue. Again, wedding venue sets the mood and ambience for wedding and when picking always put some factors into thought.

The first is the wedding budget which has made by the investors of the wedding. There are many venues that can be chosen from and that be also available but the question is, can you afford them? As you are planning the wedding, you must learn to invest budget your money and set portions for each part of your wedding. The budget you will use for your venue will also depend on how many guests you are planning to invite. Of course, bigger the place, it will be more expensive.

The second thing is to think about the wedding date. If it is considering having two wedding venues, then have to assure that both venues will be available on the same date. When deciding for the date, it is best to pick a year ahead. You will have to encounter booking a venue that has already been booked for more than a year. That is why starting ahead of time is an advantage.

The third thing is to pick two or more than two venues that you can choose from. To compare their rates and see what will fit your budget best. Also, make sure you have a backup wedding venue.

Further, if you already have a list of venues in hand, visit them personally. This way you will be able to look at the place and see if it has the perfect size for your wedding. It will also be helpful to visualize where you will be placing certain aspects for your wedding like the stage, the buffet table, the sound system and other things.

Wedding day will come only once in your life and make sure that it is perfect for you, your family and guests. Make sure the wedding venue is comfortable and accessible for everyone. Don't be so anxious and tempted to go over your budget as you can find good wedding.

On the day of the wedding, everyone wants everything to be perfect or probably close to perfect. And that includes the perfect planning and execution for the wedding. One of the most difficult decisions to be making is that you will have to pick the wedding venue for your big day. The venue for the wedding is very important because only it sets the mood of wedding. And the most important thing is that it will be very special for both bride and groom.

Royal Weddings in IndiaA

India is ironically known as the land of Maharaja’s and their rich and royal lifestyles since decades. Indian royal weddings and royal social celebrations over years are the most prestigious imperial for various celebrations and sacred ceremonies which people treasured as memories to last a life time.

Places like Rajasthan, Gujrat and some part of Punjab for example, are well-known to have a regal legacy of emperors and kings. Focusing on architectural structures are associated with royal Indian families. The forts and palaces of many royal families of India are now considered as the places of attraction for the common public and visitors.

Some of the royal places are also used for various commercial purposes like hotel business, private bookings and even royal weddings too. These places show the glamorous essence of Rajasthan, there are other royal families those are scattered all over the country. Some of them are The Scindia Royal Family, the Tripura Royal Family, the Royal Family of Gwalior and the Royal Family of Kochi are the relatively ones which worth 

mentioning.

The Palaces are the magnificent venues for its unique decorations and preparations as they are the only places lived by the Maharajas to restore their original glory and charm. These palaces are the acceptable places for the best royal Indian whether Hindu, Muslim, Christian or any other wedding and adds the royal taste to the auspicious occasion. To make the special moments of this an unforgettable celebration, personalized and innovative wedding services provided during the wedding functions till vidai of the bride.

Embarking the new journey together in style and leave all your worries behind. This experience, which will be unique and you will surely take your word for it. Marriages are made in heaven, so why not make the venue a living heaven on earth for an exotic lifetime affair. Imagining the bride on your wedding day, beautify like a princess against a gorgeous backdrop.

The sophisticatedly decorated palace will offers a grand welcome to you and your guests. The presence of elephants, camels, horse’s and vehicles including local Folk performers, dancers and musicians, Snake Charmers, Puppet Shows, kalbeliyas, dhol walas along with a smart wedding band which provide no less than a fairy tale wedding experience. In contrast a sophisticated and close party wedding with DJ and cocktail could also be a part of whole new royal event.

Marriage is the only moment in the history of a person, marking a new beginning for life which will mark his importance in someone’s life. Different people from different places celebrate this holy moment in extraordinary ways by selecting floral arrangements, creating atmosphere through music, preparing a celebratory meal and most importantly, choosing the perfect venue. The royal wedding discovers ceremonies and essential luxuries guaranteed to enhance the celebration.

The Palaces are the magnificent venues for its unique decorations and preparations as they are the only places lived by the Maharajas to restore their original glory and charm. These palaces are the acceptable places for the best royal Indian whether Hindu, Muslim, Christian or any other wedding and adds the royal taste to the auspicious occasion.

Importance of Weddings

In the beginning of the ceremony, there the young, tanned, dark haired male sits freshly groomed in a poised Indian style position under the mandap also known as a canopy. The flickering yellows, reds, and oranges of the fire that burns before him reflects off his and the face of the priest sitting next to him. They sit and wait for the beauty to appear before them, one obviously more anxious than the other; however, a bright white draped fabric is held in front of him. The soft, bright, white fabric is used to blind the young male of what awaits behind the simple divider. Viewed by all except for the most important individual of the two to be forever joined, appears a beautiful carriage with red and white flowers hanging from the sides being carried not by horses but by four first cousins. A beautiful Indian wedding between two individuals coupled together in front of loved ones.

As they carry her from the carriage to her seat, the husband to be is waiting anxiously for his bride to be. Finally the moment is here, for the drape to be dropped and they both look at. This is called marriage; in Indian style.

Hindu marriages signify customs, rituals and elaborate celebrations and are full of fun and frolic. Indian weddings speak volumes of the rich culture, heritage and ethnicity of the country. Every region follows its own traditions customs and rituals for the wedding. Marriages are made in heaven! Indian marriages are many a times "arranged", although that is changing. Is has been said that two people marry not only themselves but two families get married to each other. Therefore you will see that some Indian parents still play a big role in finding a bride or a groom for their children. With westernization influencing the eastern cultures many age old practices are being forgotten. The " young and the restless" are following new traditions and paths to find their mates. Marriage is deemed essential for virtually everyone in India. For the individual, marriage is marking the transition to adulthood. Marriage alliances of course, result in the biological reproduction of families.

A wedding is an important religious ceremony in the Hindu religion and one of the most important of the sixteen Hindu sanskars or sacraments. It is not only establishing the bond between two people, but also the bond between two families. Hindu weddings are usually hosted by the bride's parents and take place at a common place, decided by both the bride and groom's family. Generally, the marriage ceremonies take place at an open space, under a decorated canopy called mandap.

The ceremonies practiced are essentially divided into three parts - pre wedding customs, wedding day ceremony and post wedding rituals. The rituals and customs performed in each of the three phases have a deep significance and meaning. The pre wedding celebrations mainly includes engagement, sangeet, mehendi, haldi and tilak. The wedding day ceremonies, it involves different traditional rituals. One of the most important rituals of Hindu wedding is the seven rounds or sapta padi taken together, around the sacred fire, by the bride and the groom, while the seven vows or promise are read by the priest or purohit. The bride and the bride groom take the vows before God, symbolized by fire and light. These seven promises taken together by the bride and groom build's the foundation of their relationship and marriage.

Thereafter, post wedding ceremonies are performed, which mostly include vidaai and reception. This is the most emotional moment of the wedding, when the bride takes leave from her parents and other family members and takes her first step towards her new life in her husband's house. On reaching the new home, there are a number of ceremonies that are performed, right from welcoming the new bride to playing games and making merry.

According to Hindu Shastra there are four stages of life, of which Grahastha Ashram or married life signifies the second stage. It begins, when a man and a woman come together and marry. In India, marriage is treated as an institution, which teaches the actual values of life.

A marriage symbolizes not just coming together of two individuals, but also the bonding of understanding, commitment, mutual love, oneness and spiritual growth. Traditionally, Hindu marriage is much more than just celebration and fun. It demands sacrifice, companionship, dedication, and devotion from both the partners.

Weddings in India

India, a vast geographic area with the maximum diversity. The most believed and considered nation for its culture and tradition. Rituals and Customs are always been an immortal part of Indian weddings.

According to Hindu Shastra, humans have to undergo four different stages of life, of which Grahastha Ashram or Married life is the second one. It initiates when a man and a woman come together as whole and console and marry each other.

Every stage in life signifies its own charm and entreaty and married life is too charismatic and appealing. In India, a marriage was usually arranged by the parents of the bride and the groom and follows various steps. But, now as the generation X has changed the perspective and opinion of the people, marriages are arranged by the bride and groom as their love marriage.

Marriage is not only considered as a union of two souls, but of two families. In India, marriage is taken as the experience and the hold of responsibilities, which teaches humans the actual worth of life and being honest to your actual values of life.

Weddings in India costs a massive amount of not only money but man power too. To arrange all the pre-wedding, wedding and post-wedding functions. The wedding routine of the family includes shopping for bride and groom, families, relatives, etc. The pre-wedding includes engagement ceremony, mehndi, ladies sangeet and tilak rituals. Main day course of the wedding does mapping for the mandap and the varmala. The post-wedding streamlined for the vidaai and wedding reception.

Different religions have different customs and traditions and even have different names for the same ceremonies too. As Hindu wedding rituals are different from the Muslim once, they are two different religions. But, if we took the example of Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, etc sharing almost the same geographical area and dialect still the wedding rituals differ.

The Punjabi, Marwari and Sindhi have the ease of royal weddings and reception nowadays. But marriages are done to show the sickness of anxiety and richness. People waste gigantic assets for the purpose of a marriage that can be simply done in the presence of some, close friends and relatives rather than hyping it as a public event.

Weddings of India cannot be compared and equalized with any of the country around the globe because it has the significance of rituals, norms of customs, essence of love, trust of purity, base of honesty, promise of loyalty.

Every stage in life signifies its own charm and entreaty and married life is too charismatic and appealing. In India, marriage is taken as the experience and the hold of responsibilities, which teaches humans the actual worth of life and being honest to your actual values of life.

Indian Wedding Traditions

Indian weddings are extravagant affairs, rich with tempted vibrant events and rituals. Indian wedding traditions consist of a number of wedding rituals that starts and roots to an extended period of time. Weddings in India are attended by the friends and relatives of the bride and groom, who attend the wedding with unbound fantasy and enthusiasm. The wedding rituals are observed in the ambience of chanting of mantras from the Holy Scriptures. Indian weddings are unique in their style have no alternate of its fantasy being felt.

Indian weddings are a perfect amalgamation of rituals and customs along with other fun filled and frothy moments. Wedding signs the beginning of a new relationship not just between two individuals but also between two families and thus, there are various moments in the wedding ceremonies that help to build new relationships.

Different castes and communities have their own tradition and culture. India with united and secular country possesses such diverse cultural background showcases variety of rituals and customs.

In many communities of Hindu Religion, there is a ritual in which the sisters-in-law hide the shoes of their jija or brother-in-law and return them only in exchange for money and gifts. It's a joyful and fun filled ritual.

In some communities, there are rituals where the hands of bride and groom are covered with a holy cloth to ward off ill barriers and evil eye during the pheras.

In Parsee marriage ceremonies, the sisters-in-law take gifts from their brother-in-law during the ritual of Haath Boravanu, the groom puts his hand in water and cannot remove them until he pays money to them, Pag Dhovanu, where the groom is threatened with milk on his shoes and Chero Chorvanu is in which seven strands of thread tying the couple are removed on payment.

In Gujarati custom, the groom's mother-in-law tries to pull his nose on arrival of the Baraat, as a reminder of the fact that he is taking away their daughter and is now his responsibility. Aeki-Beki, when a tray of water is mixed with milk and vermillion. A ring with few coins are thrown into the mixture. The bride and groom have seven chances to fish out the ring. The winner is considered as the dominating personality and it is predicted that he or she will dominate the other.

In Punjabi custom the bride's wear a Chuda, a set of red and ivory bangles by her maternal uncle. This custom is considered good prediction for the bride as it will bring good luck to the bride in her new home. Punjabi brides wear Kaleeras. These are silver or gold plated jewellery tied to the Chudas. It is said that the bride has as many friends as there are leaves in the Kaleere. One interesting ritual related with the Kaleere is the custom in which a bride shakes her Kaleere over the unmarried girls in her family. It is said that she is the next one to be married.

Another ritual which has significance in almost every community when the new bride comes to her new home and  the groom's sisters block the entrance and demand money from their brother as a shagun before they let him in.

Indian weddings are a perfect amalgamation of rituals and customs along with other fun filled and frothy moments. Wedding signs the beginning of a new relationship not just between two individuals but also between two families.

Think hatke!!!

“Virgin Mobile” brand is India’s ‘first’ national youth-focused mobile service. “Virgin Mobile” branded services are being offered to the Indian consumers by Tata Teleservices through a brand franchise with Virgin Mobile. It focusses the youth of India whether for GSM or CDMA. Call rates and plans in GSM are cheaper than others and CDMA is handy as the young generation needs to be.


The boy in the ad tries to convince her girlfriend that he was not doing anything which she thought to be. The mobile slipped from his hand inside the cabin. But he needs cheaper rates and talktime to convince her as virgin mobile provides him.


The other perspective is that mobile is also a virgin, its fine if the mobile slipped because mobile also needs a female companion... As boys do usually...

AIDS... Its serious not humorous.

The humour presented in Indian ads is totally creative. They have such a wonderful concepts. We have too many elements in our country which we can potray comically.  Western ads is almost every humour has the sex element in it or else everything else is boring.


This ad is meant to be funny that shirt ads to the funny element of it that boy is from Gujarat. People over there wear really funny clothes thats what they portraying. You need a higher level of intelligence to get the hang of it. 


The ad also includes the judicial working of our country. How they rolls over the bite of the reality and spice it up with their tricky questions. The tricks makes the parties being trapped. But the ad created for the AIDS campaign is commendable. So 'ASK' if you have any query..

Providing the right way you deserve...

The advertisement shows that the educational level should be set according to the potential of the student. A hair dresser cannot learn the basics of its excellence in a roadside barber's shop. The training needs the advice of the expertise.

This not only showing the right place to learn but also the right techniques to use to get the best offer and profit if you invest.

The Times of India's Education times provides you the best opportunities and the information from where you can get what really you deserve. The institution and the faculty which suits you and which can give you the best they have. It will surely turn out the best in you.

Get... What you search.

The ad was little difficult to understand when it was started, later on it made a comic serial but when it ended it was cleared that hutch provides MSN search whenever and wherever you want. Infact this ad is a piece of superb imagination..!! The best part is the background track...

The imagination was the best part but MSN take search time is equal to Eskimo's to come all the way from the Arctic. Use a simple word "Use google and u don't have to wait for that long". But the Eskimos travelling a long way from Arctic through rivers, deserts, canals, cities and many more different places to give you the best result of the search you want.

Change is inevitable...

Change is good and change is inevitable!!! Every organization needs change in its policies and agenda to move further in the market. The man who wrote change on the white board was expecting and wants the employees to recommend the new ideas for the development of the company.


As people have different observations, mindsets and perceptions. The employees started contributing change instead of change in ideas. May be because change is considered as money in coins in India. Not just in India - change in English language can mean a small amount of money (usually in coin form).


The advertisement also shows the importance of the company for the employers when they are ask for the change they contributed all the they have even the peon who doesn't have much to share but he also shared. But as the ad concludes that change is rubbed. The board is again changed into a blank one.