Indian Columbus

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Chennai's outskirts, the Cholamandal Artists’ Village stands as a testament to the boundless creativity and enduring spirit of India's artistic community. Spread across 10 acres of picturesque land along the most happening East Coast Road (ECR), this village serves as a sanctuary for artists, both seasoned and emerging, to unleash their imagination and breathe life into their creations. Founded in 1966, the Cholamandal Artists’ Village is hailed as India’s largest self-supporting artists’ village and a shining beacon of contemporary art in Asia. At its helm was K.C.S. Paniker, a visionary painter who sought to provide a nurturing environment for artists to thrive and explore their craft. Under his guidance, this village blossomed into a vibrant hub of artistic expression, attracting talents from across South India. The name "Cholamandal" pays homage to the illustrious Chola dynasty, known for its patronage of the arts during the...

Every time I venture into Puducherry, I find myself swept away by its undeniable allure, prompting me to ponder whether any other city in India could rival its unique charm. Nestled within this coastal gem lies the magnificent Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges Church, a structure so breathtaking that it compels me to question if there exists a more captivating sight in this serene locale. Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, or Our Lady of Angels Church as it is known in English, bears a name that resonates with both reverence and beauty. Among locals, it is affectionately referred to as the White Chapel or Kaps Koyil, testament to its widespread appeal that transcends religious affiliations and architectural interests. Whether one is a devout Catholic, an admirer of fine architecture, or simply a passerby, the church commands attention and admiration. Perched elegantly by the sea, it serves as a focal point for both tourists and seekers of tranquility alike. In the soft light of early morning...

Kartavya Path, formerly known as Rajpath, is a grand avenue in New Delhi, connecting Rashtrapati Bhavan through India Gate to National Stadium. It's a ceremonial route flanked by lush lawns, canals, and rows of trees. This iconic road hosts the annual Republic Day parade on January 26th and is considered one of India's most significant thoroughfares. It is also used for the funeral processions of important political leaders. The avenue runs in east-west direction. Road from Connaught Place, the financial centre of Delhi, run into Rajpath from north. At Vijay Chowk it crosses Sansad Marg, and the Old Parliament House of India can be seen here. At Raisina Hill, Kartavya Path is flanked by the North and South Blocks of the Secretariat Building. Finally it ends at the gates of Rashtrapati Bhavan.  The idea for Rajpath emerged in 1911, when the British decided to move the capital from Calcutta to Delhi. Sir Edwin Lutyens designed New Delhi, envisioning a modern imperial city with a ...

As our captivating exploration of the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple unfolds, our attention is drawn to the western end of the east-side frontside mandapa, where two towering pillars proudly display their enthralling sculptures. Upon beholding these magnificent sculptures, one may ponder: do they alone suffice to encapsulate the essence of the entire temple? Can anything within its sacred walls rival the beauty and allure of these masterpieces? It seems this sculptor's skill presents a challenge even to Brahma, the Creator of the Universe, who must surely envy such mastery of artistry. A distinguished figure, bedecked in elaborate jewels and a grand crown, boasts a sharp nose and exquisite ears as he gracefully envelops a graceful lady in his embrace. His stance exudes refinement, with his left leg elegantly tucked behind him. Meanwhile, the lady, despite a broken nose, maintains her composure, her captivating features enhanced by her chic bun hairstyle. Her attire, intricate...

Nestled within the heart of Chennai lies a serene oasis awaiting discovery - Chetpet Lake. Spanning 9 acres of picturesque tranquility, this pristine body of water is the crown jewel of Chetpet Eco Park. Chetpet Lake offers visitors a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling cityscape. Chetpet Lake's rich history dates back to the early 20th century when visionaries like Sir Frederick Nicholson and Sir Alfred Chatterton laid the groundwork for its development. Initially envisioned as part of an industrialization plan for the Madras Presidency, the lake eventually came under the stewardship of the Fisheries Department in the 1930s. Over the years, efforts towards eco-restoration have transformed Chetpet Lake into a thriving ecosystem, with Chief Minister Jayalalithaa's announcement of a ₹42 crore project in April 2013 marking a significant milestone in its conservation journey. As visitors approach the shores of Chetpet Lake, they are greeted by a sense of calmness and serenity. The...

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 ...