Indian Columbus

Located at the southern end of Central Park in Manhattan stands a commanding bronze statue of Christopher Columbus. Crafted by Jeronimo Suñol, a popular Spanish sculptor, this sculpture was unveiled on May 12, 1894, to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Columbus's arrival in the Americas. A gift from the New York Genealogical and Biographical Society, it mirrors Suñol's original work in Madrid's Plaza de Colón, serving as a profound symbol of exploration and aspiration. The statue presents Columbus in a posture that radiates confidence and vision. Standing tall, he dons elaborate attire characteristic of a 15th-century explorer. The intricate details of his robe, belt, and necklace reflect both the formal and historical essence of the figure. His right arm is outstretched, embodying the spirit of discovery and the proclamation of new horizons, while his left hand grips a staff crowned with a cross, symbolizing faith and conquest. At Columbus's feet lies a globe, encir...

Located in the heart of Munnar, Signal Point is a haven of natural beauty and tranquility. Perched gracefully among the rolling hills of the Western Ghats, this picturesque spot offers more than just breathtaking views; it provides an experience that lingers in the heart long after your visit. With its panoramic vistas, cool climate, and serene ambiance, Signal Point has become a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat. Signal Point's charm lies in its sweeping views of Munnar's signature tea plantations, dense forests, and the majestic mountain ranges in the distance. The vibrant flora and crisp mountain air create a setting that feels almost otherworldly. For early risers and sunset chasers, Signal Point offers a front-row seat to nature’s grand show. Imagine the sun’s golden rays spilling over the hills, casting a warm glow on the lush landscape—moments like these make the journey worthwhile. A visit to Signal Point...

Located in Coventry's historic Spon Street, the buildings at 181 and 182 stand as enduring testaments to the city's rich architectural heritage. These structures, with histories dating back to the 18th and early 20th centuries, have witnessed significant transformations, reflecting both the passage of time and the city's commitment to preservation. Originally established around 1750, 181 Spon Street has a storied past. Known as the Rising Sun, this establishment served as a public house for over two centuries. The current building, which replaced a two-story structure in January 1896, showcases architectural features typical of that era.  It exhibits the architectural charm of Tudor Revival style, a hallmark of Spon Street’s historical character. The exteriors are adorned with dark timber beams forming intricate patterns against white plaster, a signature of Tudor-inspired aesthetics. The steep, gabled roofs with brick chimneys crown the buildings, emphasizing their perio...

This is the tenth installment in my series on the Kanheri Caves. In earlier articles, I explored Cave No. 1 and Cave No. 2 in detail. In the previous article, I introduced Cave No. 3, highlighting its entrance and the accompanying sculptures. Now, let us step inside to uncover its interior marvels. Cave No. 3 was excavated by two merchant brothers, Gajasena and Gajamita, during the reign of Yajnashri Satkarni, a Satavahana ruler from the late 2nd century CE. The cave features a well-crafted forecourt with a flight of steps leading to a rectangular verandah and an apsidal Chaitya at the rear. Two massive pillars, emerging from the side walls, dominate the entrance. In this article, I will focus on these impressive pillars. The kumbha (base) forms the foundation of the pillars. Here, the base is adorned with intricate reliefs, including miniature aediculae (shrine-like motifs) and figurative depictions, representing religious or narrative themes. The stambha, or shaft, is the elongated c...

Marina Bay Sands is an architectural masterpiece that defines Singapore’s skyline. Opened in 2010, it was developed by Las Vegas Sands and designed by the renowned architect Moshe Safdie. With a staggering cost of approximately S$8 billion, it was the world’s most expensive standalone casino property at the time. Inspired by decks of cards, its design symbolizes balance and innovation, perfectly embodying Singapore’s global stature. From the outside, Marina Bay Sands is an awe-inspiring sight, especially at night. The structure features three towering 55-story buildings, seamlessly connected by the Sands SkyPark—a boat-shaped rooftop terrace that boldly defies conventional architectural norms. The SkyPark adds to its allure, seemingly floating above the city with its lush greenery and futuristic design. At night, the resort dazzles with its vibrant red and gold lights, reflecting its grandeur and modernity. Framed by the surrounding greenery and urban landscape, Marina Bay Sands stands...

Located along the serene Beach Road in Puducherry, the Kargil War Memorial honors the memory of 527 Indian soldiers who gave their lives during the Kargil War. Built by the Government, the memorial serves as a powerful reminder of a conflict that, while limited in scope, profoundly influenced the nation's collective spirit and reinforced its patriotic resolve. The architecture of the memorial is understated yet deeply evocative, reflecting its solemn purpose. Four tall, rectangular stone columns with square capitals frame the structure, exuding a sense of strength and dignity. At its heart lies a central plinth, crowned by a symbolic representation of a soldier's helmet resting atop a rifle. This iconic imagery serves as a universal emblem of military sacrifice and remembrance. The design avoids excessive ornamentation, ensuring the focus remains on these meaningful elements, creating a space that invites quiet reflection and reverence. Happy travelling.

Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Humayun's Tomb complex in Delhi, the Afsarwala Tomb and its adjacent mosque stand as enduring markers of Mughal architectural and cultural legacy. Constructed in the mid-16th century during Emperor Akbar's reign, these structures carry a blend of historical intrigue and architectural finesse, offering a window into the past. The Tomb's Enigmatic Identity The Afsarwala Tomb houses the remains of an unidentified individual, sparking speculation about its origins. The name "Afsarwala" likely derives from the Persian word afsar, meaning "officer," suggesting that this could be the resting place of a high-ranking military commander. Some theories link the tomb to Abdul Fateh Sultan Afshar, a member of the Turkish Afshar tribe who accompanied Emperor Humayun during his return to India in 1555. Historical records indicate that Abdul Fateh chose to remain in India, possibly aligning him with the tomb’s creatio...

I have been extensively documenting the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple in Tirunelveli, delving into its remarkable architecture, layout, iconography, deities, inscriptions, festivals, waterbodies, and other notable aspects. In this concluding episode, I will outline key construction milestones and significant additions to the temple over the centuries. Photo Courtesy - Vijay Bhat The temple, believed to have originated in the early Pandya period, has evolved through contributions from various dynasties, patrons, and devotees. Below is a chronological list of notable structures and features, supported by historical records where available: The original temple is believed to have been constructed in the 6th century CE or earlier. Mukkurini Vinayaka near the southern Dwarapala in the Maha Mandapa of the Nellaiyappar shrine dates to the Chola period (11th century CE). Nellai Govindan, as per some records, belongs to the Rajendra Chola period (11th century CE), though this date is deb...

The statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the Egmore Museum in Chennai stands as a poignant tribute to the Father of the Nation and his enduring ideals. Unveiled on August 15, 2022, by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, the statue marked the 75th Independence Day celebrations. Its unveiling also commemorated the centenary of Gandhi's iconic decision to adopt minimal attire during his visit to Tamil Nadu—a gesture that symbolized his empathy and solidarity with the impoverished. Crafted in bronze, the life-sized statue portrays Gandhi in an upright posture, with his hands clasped together in a gesture of humility and peace. His simple dhoti, draped around his body, reflect his minimalist lifestyle and his rejection of materialism. The serene yet determined expression on his face captures the essence of his unwavering commitment to truth and non-violence. Perched on a tall pedestal, the statue commands attention while inviting reflection, making it a meaningful addition to the rich heritag...

In the heart of New York City, near the bustling entrance of Central Park's Merchants' Gate , stands the imposing Maine Monument . This architectural and sculptural marvel commemorates the 266 sailors who tragically lost their lives when the USS Maine exploded in Havana Harbor in Cuba on February 15, 1898 . Though the cause of the explosion remains a mystery, the event became a rallying cry for the Spanish-American War and left an indelible mark on American history. The Spanish-American War, which ended later that year, resulted in Cuba gaining nominal independence, while the U.S. gained control of territories like Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines, marking its emergence as a global power. Atlantic Ocean A Nation United in Grief and Patriotism When news of the USS Maine disaster spread, the American public, fueled by the sensationalist reporting of William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer , two popular newspaper publishers, demanded action. President William McKinle...

Spon Street, with its charming array of historic buildings, stands as a testament to Coventry’s commitment to preserving its rich architectural heritage. Among its many treasures, the building at 188–190 Spon Street offers a fascinating journey through time, showcasing layers of history from the medieval period to modern restoration efforts. This range of much-altered 18th-century houses, carefully restored in 1988 by Coventry City Council, is a striking example of adaptive reuse and historical preservation. Beneath its Georgian façade lie remnants of earlier structures, including parts of medieval buildings at the rear and an extraordinary relic of the 14th-century city wall embedded in the end wall of No. 190. These unique features earned the building a coveted Evening Telegraph Design Award in 1989, underscoring its significance as a piece of living history. Architecturally, 188–190 Spon Street captures the essence of Coventry’s evolution. While the front showcases a clean, symmetri...

Located just 3 kilometers from Munnar town along the Kochi road lies a sanctuary of serenity and beauty—Blossom Hydel Park. This enchanting destination is where nature unveils its most vibrant hues, offering a perfect escape for those seeking solace, adventure, or simply a breath of fresh mountain air. As you step into Blossom Hydel Park, you’re greeted by the invigorating aroma of fresh mountain flowers that thrive in abundance. The gentle murmur of the Muthirappuzha River flowing nearby harmonizes with the rustling leaves of the lush greenery. Migratory water birds and vibrant mountain butterflies add a lively touch, making the park a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Spanning vast stretches of landscaped mounts and gardens, the park is a treasure trove of activities and sights such as fish massage, zip line, campfire evening, bird watching, boating and fish aquarium. Blossom Hydel Park’s location near the misty folds of the Kannan Devan Hill Tea Estates amplifies...