Indian Columbus

In the vibrant heart of New York City, at the bustling Columbus Circle, stands the Christopher Columbus Monument , an enduring symbol of exploration and cultural heritage. Rising 76 feet into the Manhattan skyline, this magnificent column pays homage to the Italian explorer who forever altered the course of history with his voyage to the New World in 1492 CE. Far more than just a statue, the monument is a masterpiece of art and history crafted by Italian sculptor Gaetano Russo and unveiled in 1892 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Columbus’ historic journey. The statue itself is a striking figure of Columbus, carved from marble, standing atop a 27.5-foot granite rostral column. Columbus is depicted in a poised and commanding stance, exuding confidence and determination. His right hand rests firmly on his hip, while his left hand appears relaxed, creating a balanced yet assertive pose. Dressed in the attire of a 15th-century explorer, including a long tunic and a flowing cloak, h...

Situated in the heart of Coventry, Spon Street offers a unique window into the city's rich medieval history. Among the many historical gems lining this picturesque street stands a remarkable 15th-century timber-framed building that continues to captivate visitors with its charm and historical significance. Originally situated at 7 Much Park Street, this building was painstakingly dismantled and reconstructed on Spon Street during the 1970-71 restoration efforts, ensuring its preservation for future generations. This restoration project, backed by donations of materials and led by the City Corporation, has helped to maintain the building’s authenticity and allowed it to remain a striking example of Coventry's architectural heritage. The building’s design is quintessentially medieval, with a timber-framed structure that includes exposed wooden beams, a steeply pitched roof, and unique features that speak to its original purpose. Built atop a stone-vaulted cellar, the structure on...

Situated amidst the lush greenery of Munnar, the Lakkam Waterfalls offer a refreshing retreat to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Situated at an impressive altitude of 7,300 feet above sea level, these falls are a testament to the breathtaking beauty of the Western Ghats. Unlike most waterfalls that cascade from towering hills, Lakkam Waterfalls originate from the Eravikulam Plateau. This distinct feature sets them apart, creating a striking flow that gathers into a serene pool below. The sight of water tumbling gracefully from a plateau is a visual treat, making it a favorite among photographers and visitors. Surrounded by dense clusters of Vaga trees and scattered boulders, Lakkam Waterfalls offer more than just a picturesque view. Visitors can embark on a boulder-hiking adventure to get closer to the falls, experiencing the thrill of climbing amidst the rugged terrain. For those looking for a more tranquil experience, the pool at the base of the falls is perfect for a refr...

This is the seventh article in my series on the Kanheri Caves. In the previous installments, I introduced the caves in general and then delved into the specifics of Cave No. 1. Adjacent to Cave No. 1, on its northern side, lies Cave No. 2—a significant west-facing excavation. This cave features a vihara and three stupas housed in separate chambers, giving them the appearance of detached chaityas. So far, I’ve explored various aspects of Cave No. 2. In the third article, I discussed the first stupa, while the fourth covered the second stupa and the sculptures on the left wall of the third stupa. The fifth and sixth articles focused on the sculptures on the right and middle walls of the third stupa, respectively. In this installment, I will explore the inscriptions found in Cave No. 2. Inscription 1 This inscription is located in the right corner of Cave No. 2, behind the large stupa. It is positioned partly on the left and partly beneath a standing Buddha figure, where nine individuals ...

The Flower Dome at Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay is a record-breaking architectural and botanical masterpiece, officially recognized as the world’s largest glass greenhouse by the 2015 Guinness World Records. Covering an area of 1.2 hectares (3.0 acres), the dome mimics the cool-dry climate of Mediterranean and semi-arid regions, providing an immersive experience into diverse plant life from around the world. The dome houses eight themed gardens, each showcasing flora from different continents: Baobabs and Bottle Trees : Iconic African species such as Adansonia digitata . Succulent Garden : Home to striking desert plants like Agave victoriae-reginae . Mediterranean Garden : A tribute to the Mediterranean region’s olive groves. South African, South American, and Australian Gardens : Featuring exotic plants such as Protea cynaroides and Anigozanthos species. California Garden : Highlighting native plants of the Golden State. At the heart of the Flower Dome lies the Flower Field, a cha...

As part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations, Puducherry has inaugurated a remarkable homage to the nation’s unsung heroes—a Tribute Wall honoring freedom fighters from across India. Aptly named the “Wall of Sacrifice” (Thiyaga Perunjuvar) , this memorial stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dedicated their lives to India’s freedom struggle. Located near the iconic Gandhi Thidal on Beach Road, the Tribute Wall was unveiled by the then Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, in on a momentous occasion marking the 75th anniversary of Indian Independence in 2022 CE. This initiative not only salutes the sacrifices of countless patriots but also integrates significant milestones in Indian history. The memorial aligns with several landmark anniversaries: The 100th death anniversary of Subramania Bharati , the revolutionary poet and nationalist who galvanized millions through his fiery verses. The 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash...

Located on EVR Salai (formerly Poonamallee High Road), the Ripon Building stands as an enduring symbol of Chennai’s rich history and governance. Completed in 1913, this iconic structure, designed by architect G.S.T. Harris and built under the supervision of Loganatha Mudaliar , has been home to the Greater Chennai Corporation for over a century. The building owes its name to Lord Ripon , the Viceroy of India from 1880 to 1884, who was instrumental in introducing local self-governance reforms in the country. Reflecting his legacy, the Madras Corporation evolved into a modern municipal body, transitioning from its earlier reliance on local administrators like the Adhikari, Kanakku pillai, and Pedda Nayak. It was the first municipal corporation of its kind outside Europe, a fact that highlights its historical significance.  The Ripon Building is a shining example of Neo-Classical architecture , with its pristine white facade and subtle Indo-Saracenic influences.  The structure ...