Sikhism Religion

Indian culture is amalgamation of different cultures, traditions of its neighbors and also its own ancient heritage, which were formed during the Indus Valley Civilization further evolved during the Vedic age, rise and decline of Buddhism, Golden age, Muslim conquests and European colonization. In all Indian culture exhibits a great blend of various cultures which are very unique and has a value of its own. India’s exhibits diversity of cultural practices, languages, customs, traditions and religious systems such as Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism. The unique blend of various rich cultures has influenced the various other parts of world to a great extend.A number of languages spoken in India have added to its diverse culture. At present, there are 415 living languages in India, but The Indian Constitution has declared the usage of Hindi and English to be the two official languages of communication for the Union Government. Internal communications of Individual state’s are done in their own state’s language. There are two major linguistic families in India are those of the Indo-Aryan which is confined to northern, western, central and eastern India and the Dravidian languages confined to southern India. Coming to Indian architecture, one’s mind navigates from the great temple cities of the South — Chidambaram, Rameswaram, Kanchipuram, Madurai, and numerous others — to the architectural magnificence of the Vijaynagar Empire and the erotic sculptures of Khajuraho to the Mughal architecture of Delhi, Agra, and Fatehpur Sikri or the havelis of Jaisalmer with their immaculate lattice work. There is so much to see and discover.Indians have cultural values and good manners that are acknowledged by all. Indians respect their elders and not only their elders they respect their guests too. We believe and are taught “atithi devo bhava” this means guest is god and therefore anyone who comes to Indian is treated well and cared.Culture is not only about music, dance, art, and cinema, for marriage customs, death rites, patterns of pilgrimage, modes of raising children, treatment to elders, and there are innumerable other aspects stitch into meaning of culture. Indian religions, beliefs, festivals, rituals, artifacts, monuments, costumes, music, dance, language and literature are the hallmark of Indian culture and collectively make it so rich. It is not only believed but has been acknowledged and recognized by people all over the world.

Isn’t it amazing that some of the easiest things in life can also be the hardest? Driving seems so difficult when we start, but once we’ve passed the test and have been driving for a while, it all seems so natural and we wonder what all the fuss was about. Similarly, meditation can seem like the hardest thing in the world – especially with our lives as busy as they are these days – but what could be easier than sitting down and trying to concentrate on your breathing? Sometimes things are so hard, simply because they are so easy. With Valentine’s Day drawing ever closer, our attentions are inevitably shifting towards the big day and the subsequent giving and receiving of Valentines Day Gifts. Yet although February 14th is clearly a day for love and romance, even when we have the very best of intentions, we can find ourselves faced with a problem that is as hard as it is easy; all we need to do is find Valentines Gifts that say “I love you” to that special person in our lives, but sometimes those three little words are so difficult to say. Thankfully, for those among us who find it difficult to say, “I love you”, no matter how much the emotion is sincerely felt, there is a fantastic selection of Valentines Gifts available to help make the task considerably easier. And even if you’re the type of person who doesn’t have any trouble expressing how they feel, Valentines Day Gifts that say “I love you” are a great way to reinforce the point. If the person in your heart has a tendency to spend hours on end at the office, or even if they choose to bring their work home with them, why not incorporate into your repertoire of Valentines Gifts a beautiful I Love You Large Paperweight? Measuring 100 x 10 x 19 mm and featuring the words “I love you”, this spectacular polished glass paperweight is finished off in a stylish gift box and looks great on any desk. Whether or not paperweights were originally created as Valentines Gifts, the decision to construct the I Love You Large Paperweight from glass pays homage to the device’s traditional construction methods and techniques. While paperweights can either be used for practical purposes, or collected for their aesthetic appeal, they can also be found within art museum collections – although probably not within a Valentines Gifts section. After all, no matter what the designated function of a piece, if it’s a work of art, it should be appreciated. Alternatively, if you consider yourself to be a bit of a genius in the kitchen, why not give Valentines Gifts capable of giving a warm loving glow all by themselves? If Valentines Day Gifts like this sound like they’re up your street, and you’re ready for the flames of passion to ignite in the safety of your own home, the I Love You – Candle Set could be the very thing for you. Using a heart to replace the letter ‘O’, the I Love You – Candle Set looks great no matter what the occasion, or the style of cake! While candles are today available in a vast array of colours, scents and shapes – with many probably sold as heart-shaped Valentines Gifts – they have a long and established history; indeed, there is evidence to support the idea that candles were created by both the Cretans and the Egyptians as early as 3000 BC. Evidence supports the idea that candles made by the Cretans and Egyptians were created from beeswax. Candles are also extensively used during religious ceremonies. Indeed, within Christianity candles are used extensively for both symbolic and aesthetic reasons. Other religions, such as Judaism, Sikhism and Buddhism also make extensive use of candles. However, whichever Valentines Gifts you eventually choose, as long as they convey how you really feel, it’s not possible to go wrong. If you find it hard to express yourself, this isn’t a problem as long as your Valentines Gifts say it for you.

India travel is one of the most intriguing and exciting trip one can embark upon. As a country full of diverse land forms and hence culture India travel opens up new vistas in a traveler’s diary. India tourism thus offers exotic and serene locales across India. For luxury travel and stays, hotels in India have an ethnic and rustic charm and at the same time, offer most of the modern amenities for a comfortable stay and a memorable trip. If done in advance, cheap flights to India and hotel booking turns out economical and assures you a hassle free India tour.India is the most sough destinations of traveler since the ancient time when the Indian subcontinent was explored by the outsiders. India had become a home to many visitors and invaders starting from past. Thereafter, this mysterious land of India was explored by the Persian and Greek, Scythians, White Huns, Seljuks, Tartars, Mongols, Sassanians, Turks, Mughals .There are several fascinating tourism options in this country which are able to make convinced even the most pessimistic and overjoyed person. Our country is able to make satisfied every type of tourists from USA and all over the worlds whether they are culture lovers, archaeological buffs, adventure seekers, beach lovers or simply want to spend their holiday in picturesque locations. India is one stop holiday destination for all type of tourist and vacationers who want to make their holidays memorable.You can get cheap flight tickets to India from USA which will make you money more worth. Be sure, India holidays tours never fail to enchant with various picturesque holiday destinations and fascinating options of travel & tourism. India – Place of All TouristThe land of India represents an example of diversified geographical features with its mountain ranges, valleys, desert regions, tropical rain forests, fertile plains, dry plateaus, coastal areas etc. that attracted the tourists from all over the world to give a glimpse to this mysterious land of geographical diversities. The land is interlocked by the Himalayan ranges in the north, and three sides by water – the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean – with a long history and diverse culture. India – Nucleus of World Heritage Sites India captivates the tourists’ imaginations from all over the world for its heritage sites of historical importance like Sanchi Stupa, Konark Sun Temple, Khajuraho Temples, Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Kaziranga National Park, Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Bharatpur bird Sanctuary, Churches of Goa, Fatehpur Sikri, Darjeeling Himalaya, Train Humayun Tomb, Nandadevi National Park, Qutub Minar etc. India – Cities of Tourist AttractionsIndiat is the only country in the world where tourists can find all spots for all types of tourism with mountain summits, sun kissed beaches, gurgling rivers, river rafting, para-gliding, mountain biking, trekking, mountaineering are sure to make the visit a memorable one. Travel from delhi in North India to bangalore in the South, from jaipur in the west to Guwahati in the East, tourists will never cease to wonder at the unique and fascinating sights.India – Centre of Religious Tours and HolidaysIndia had become the centre of religious and spiritual activities where four major world religions – Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism originated, while Islam, Christianity, Judaism and Zoroastrianism arrived in the first millennium and shaped the region’s variegated culture of India. That is why India is called the homeland of spiritual figures in the forms of rishis, munis, saints and faqirs. India – Home of All Tourist Seasons The soil and climate of India are so excellent and so varied that one can find the cool mountain pastures beside the glaciers, through windy plateau, to warm river valleys and burning deserts. Holidays in India has four major seasons to celebrate – Winter (January-February), Summer (March-May), Monsoon (June-September), and Post-Monsoon (October-December). Travel to India is definitely a delightful and eventful experience but one that requires is the perfect planning .So, make your trip to India memorable.

DELHI AT A GLANCE

“It is said that the history of Delhi is the history of India.”

Delhi is the capital city of the republic of India.It is situated on the banks of river Yamuna in northern India. The city is spread over an area of 1483 sq. kilometers and has a population of around 14 million. Delhi figures amongst the historical capitals of the world, with two of its historical monuments, Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb figuring in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Delhi’s history, its culture has inherited the best from the various dynasties that ruled the place, with most of them making it their capital. Be it the Mughals, the Lodhi dynasty or the Delhi sultanate, their remnants can be seen in the form of monuments and cultural inheritance even today.

The political centre stage of India, Delhi offers the best in terms of education, medical facilities as well as good employment opportunities. Some of the languages spoken are Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu and English, with Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, constituting some of the religions followed.

-: CLIMATE IN DELHI :-

Climate in Delhi is very much extreme in nature with weather being too chilly during winters and too hot during summers. It has a hot and humid climate for most of the season which becomes very hot during the months of June and July. Delhi’s climate is called the “Continental climate”, as it is situated on the banks of river Yamuna with Himalayas in the north, which varies its climate significantly.

Weather in summer:- Delhi’s summer season persists from April to August. The city is very hot in summers and daytime temperature can be as high as 45 degrees. Nights are relatively cooler though, with the cool breeze bringing the mercury down to around 25 degrees. Summer in Delhi attributes its cause to Rajasthan hot waves called “Loo”. These heat waves are immensely hot and one needs to take proper precaution during the season before going out.

Weather in Winter :- The winter season of Delhi usually starts from Mid-November and continues till February end, and is shorter in comparison to summers. The day temperature is usually around 20 degrees, which falls as low as 2 to 4 degrees at nights. Winter days of Delhi can surprise a lot of people who have the impression of Delhi as being a rather warm place, as the city can be quite chilly during the peak season.The cold waves from the Himalayan region makes the winters in New Delhi very chilly. However, the sunny morning time can be a treat, and once the fog settles down, the sun rays beating down provides an enchanting experience.

Weather in Monsoon :- The time to take out the Umbrellas for the Delhi-ites! Monsoon in Delhi brings the much needed respite from the heat. However, as Delhi is situated in North India, the South West monsoons are very moderate and it rains heavily but in very short spells. Relative humidity is very high to the point where it becomes uncomfortable. The western disturbances too bring a fair amount of rainfall. Approximate annual rainfall is around 60-65 centimeters. The monsoon lasts from July to September. October sees the end of the monsoon but it is reasonably pleasant.

-: HOW TO REACH DELHI> :-

Delhi is the commercial hub of the country, the center of governance and a popular tourist destination therefore it is well connected not only to the rest of India but also with all the major cities of Asia and the World. It’s well connected air, rail and road network makes it easy for the overseas traveler to reach Delhi. Nearly all the major airlines in the world ply to Delhi. So, reaching Delhi is not a big problem with so many options available.

By Airways :- As mentioned, Delhi is connected to all major cities in the world through Airways. Regular flights are available to almost all parts of the globe. Delhi is also well connected to the rest of India with domestic flights. Delhi has two airports to cater the needs of commuters, Indira Gandhi International Airport and Palam Domestic Airport. Almost all the major airlines have their flights operating from Indira Gandhi International Airport of New Delhi.

By Railways :- The Indian Railway with their modern and organized network connects Delhi to all major and minor destinations in India. The city has three major railway stations at New Delhi, Old Delhi, and Hazrat Nizamuddin station. Direct trains are available to Delhi from nearly all the major tourist points. Make it a point to book tickets in advance, as there is heavy rush round the year. For a memorable ride, Luxury trains like the Palace-on-Wheels, Fairy Queen, and Royal Orient Express can be taken from New Delhi Cantonment railway station.

By Roadways :- Being the capital city of India, Delhi is connected to the rest of India through well-maintained network of expressways and roads. The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) has three Inter State Bus Terminuses (ISBT), at Kashmiri Gate, Sarai Kale Khan and Anand Vihar from where regular Govt. as well as Pvt. Operators provide Bus services. Besides, there are several other starting points in and around the city, from which various state-managed and privately run transport facilities like air-conditioned, deluxe and ordinary coaches operate.

Various State transportation corporation buses ply to and from the city. The major service providers are Himachal, Utter Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan Roadways corporations. Besides Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) also ply inter-state buses. Moreover DTC also has a biweekly service to Pakistan connecting Delhi with its sister city Lahore.

-: RESTAURANTS & CAFES :-

Delhi has witnessed a tremendous increase in the number of Restaurants and cafes that have come up in the city. They cover almost the entire spectra of the society, both in terms of budget and varieties of foods offered. Infact, there is no end to the list of restaurants and cafes in Delhi.

Indian cuisine can give food lovers an unforgettable experience. Here, you will find the unique mix of ancient with the modern, and a great variety of food including north Indian, Oriental, South Indian, and Thai. Some of the must visit Restaurants and Cafes are mentioned below

BUKHARA – ITC MAURYA SHERETON HOTEL, CHANAKYAPURI, NEW DELHI :-This is touted as serving the finest Indian cuisine in the world. A very popular place for food lovers. Its food, especially the non-vegetarian food is said to be mind-blowingly delicious and unforgettable.

THE SPICE ROUTE- HOTEL IMPERIAL, JANPATH, NEW DELHI :- This restaurant figured in the list of top 10 restaurants in the world. They basically serve Southeast Asian cuisine, and along with a visual depiction of the journey of spices from Kerela to Indonesia, they serve delicious food and exclusive wine selection.

CHOR BIZARRE, HOTEL BROADWAY,NEW DELHI :- The name of this restaurant means “thieves’ market,” and the mish-mash of nostalgic décor and furnishings echoes the sentiment. You might dine on an old sewing table or sit in mismatched chairs. Don’t let the fun decorations distract you from your wonderful meal. The specialty here is Kashmiri (Northern Indian) cuisine. This style of cooking tends to be a bit milder than much of Indian cooking. Try the lamb meatballs flavored with cardamom or the mutton stewed in yogurt, cardamom and anise. Reservations suggested.

-: BEST TIME TO VISIT DELHI :-

As mentioned in this website, Delhi experiences hot and humid climate in summers and chilly conditions in winters. So that leaves us with the spring season as one of the best time to visit Delhi. During this season the city is blooming and blossoming and presents a delightful sight. The spring period of February to March and September to November is the perfect answer to the question of “when to visit New Delhi, India”. In addition to this, most of the festivals in New Delhi take place in the months of October to March, which adds to the beauty of the city. For example, Dussehra falls in the month of October, Diwali in October/November, Christmas in December, Lohri in January and Holi in March. So, if you want to truly enjoy the spirit of the city, come during the peak season and lose yourself in the festivities.

However, if you are here not for mere fun but to try for adventure excursions then Delhi is worth visiting round the year as city remains bustling with tourists throughout the year.

http://hotels-delhi.org/travel-tips-delhi/delhi-travel-tips.html#DELHI-AT-A-GLANCE

The landscape of India’s south is dotted with magnificent temples. Most of these temples were built by the medieval rulers of south India like Cholas, Chalukyas, Nayakas, Pallavas, Kakatiyas and Vijayanagar rulers. All of them had their own distinct architectural style of constructing the temples. Of the hundreds of south Indian temples, Meenakshi temple in Madurai, Rock Fort Temple in Thiruchirapalli, Tirupati Tirumala Balaji in Tirupati and Somnathpur Temple in Karnataka are the most popular.

Lavishly built and aesthetically designed, the temples of South India are unmatched in architectural brilliance. But more than being mere symbols of architectural genius these temples are living emodiments of rich tradition and culture that has made India proud.

South India tour primarily includes the main tourist destinations including monuments, temples, beaches, wild life, hill stations, Ayurveda centers and other popular tourist spots that form an integral part of South India tourist packages. India, with its rich cultural and historical heritage, boasts of well preserved temples and pilgrim sites. Tourists and pilgrims not only from India, but traveling from every corner of the globe, come to India to offer their prayers to various Gods and Goddesses. Temple tours in India are very common in this country. The best way to find inner peace and solace is to embark upon temple tours. The very thought of this has such a calming impact on mind, whether it is realized or not. And when it is about paying visits to the temple, then what can be an ideal destination than India. Considered as the place of origin of noted religions like Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism, India has thousands of temples and holy shrines consecrated to various gods and goddesses. outhern India is dotted with places of religious interest. Rameshwaram is an island- of Lord Rama`s temple at Tamil Nadu and is a terrific destination. These temples in South India are not only the sign of architectural intellect but also living representation of rich tradition and culture that has made India proud. This is the style that developed in the Dravida Desam. The Vimana and the Gopurams are the distinctive characteristics of the Southern style. The Vimana is a tall pyramidal tower consisting of several progressively smaller storeys. This stands on a square base. The Gopuram has two stories separated by a horizontal molding. The Prakara or the outer wall, covers the main temple as well as the other smaller temples.The Pallavas, the Cholas, the Pandyas, the Vijayanagar rulers, the Nayaks all contributed to the Southern style of temples from the ancient time. Andhra Pradesh Temples: Tirupati TempleThe temples of Andhra Pradesh State not only possess religious but also historic value. These are the real exposure to art and sculpture, an adventure in philosophy and a lifetime experience. Some of the important temples, which are prevalent in Andhra Pradesh, are as follows: Lepakshi Temple, Thousand Pillar Temple, Tirupati Temple, Srisailam Temple, Mukhalingam Temple, Jain Mandir, Chennakesava Temple, Gunupudi Someswara Temple, Chennakesavaswami Temple, etc are some of huge importance. Karnataka Temples: Vithala TempleThe temples of Karnataka are very old and rich in tradition and culture. There is a halo of peace and serenity that surrounds the temples of Karnataka. The temples are of typical Dravidian style. These temples have survived the difficulties of time. Some of the important temples of this region are as follows: Bull Temple, Cave Temples, Virupaksha Temple, Vithala Temple, Chamundeswari Temple, Hidimbeshwar Temple, channakeshava Temple, Krishna Temple, Atmalinga Temple, Hazara Temple, Gavi Gangadeshwara Temple, etc are or much significance. Kerala Temples: Sabarimala TempleThe religious temples of Kerala show the devotees a path to spirituality. These temples have a magical effect that can turn an atheist into a religious person. The temples present in Kerala state are distinct from temples present in any other parts of the country. The temples in Kerala are in synchrony with the geography of the region and vibrate with traditions of the region. Some of the important temples are as follows: Guruvayoor Temple, Sabarimala Temple, Sivagiri Temple, Tiruvalla Temple, Ettumanoor Temple, Mannarshala Temple, Thirunavaya Temple, Ambalapuzha Temple, Vaikom Temple, Oachira Temple, Thirunelli Temple, Chottanikkara Temple, etc. Tamil Nadu Temples: Tamil Nadu is the abode of some important temples in South India. The state has some monuments of great artistic value. Most of the ancient temples were built of mortar and brick and were scooped out of rocks. Rameshwaram, Thanjavur, Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram, Chidambaram, Meenakshi Temple, and Ekambareswarar, Thanjavur, Jain Temple are some of the famous temples of Tamil Nadu.

In the North, it is bound by Himalayas – the highest and youngest mountain chain on Earth that is still evolving and separates Indian sub-continent from rest of Asia. Deccan Plateau region in the South is roughly triangular in shape with Arabia Sea to its west, Bay of Bengal to its east, and the only ocean to be named after a country – Indian Ocean to its south.

The sheer size and thousands of years old history of the country lends incredible and distinctive charm to all the states and regions of India. Eternal snow of the frozen deserts of Leh and Ladakh reflect strong Tibetan influences and some of the most amazing monasteries situated on perilous solitary rocks. The beauteous hill resorts of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal seduce tourists as cool summer retreats with shimmering mirror-like lakes; lush green forests on their slopes; foggy waterfalls; and fresh cool air carrying fragrance of orchards, coffee and tea plantations, and abundant flowers that grow in the region.

The fertile peninsular region of the South has some of the best tropical beaches fringed with swaying palm trees and shimmering white sands; distinctive temples with intricate carvings of a plethora of Indian gods and demi-gods; flourishing dance and music forms that have made a niche on the world map; and excellent churches that are legacies of European invasions in the region including Portuguese, Dutch, French and British.

The Great Indian Desert or Thar Desert presents exotic desert tourism opportunities including heritage tours of Rajasthan; exploring imposing forts, splendid palaces, and divine temples of the region; camel and horse safaris; tiger trails; bird watching; and glimpses of rural Rajasthan with its wonderful display of unique arts and crafts, folk dances, religious fervor, colorful attires, and jubilant celebration of life during fairs and festivals.

Several pilgrimage places known for their mysticism, heightened spirituality, and beautiful locales beckon tourists to explore their legends, divinity and origins. Varanasi, situated on the bank of River Ganges and four Holy Destinations (Chaar Dhaam) of Hindus attract millions of tourists every year. However, India offers some of the best Buddhist, Jainism, Sikhism and Muslim pilgrimage tour packages that are revered by people of all faith and religions. The colorful temple festivals offer finest opportunities to witness the superlative performances of India art and dance forms. Indian wedding tours are other occasions where you can catch the glimpses of how close-knit Indian society is, participate in grand celebrations, and observe the distinctiveness of wedding traditions that are quite different from the Western marriages.

The virgin islands of Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep along with humid delta areas of Northeast present unsurpassed prospects of discovering the mysterious beauty of unexplored sites and natural wonders that have not been tempered with. The advanced forms of sculptures, carvings, frescoes and paintings on display in temples, caves, monuments, mansions and palaces throughout India speak volumes about the majesty and glory of Indian heritage.

India tours with swampy deltas, crystal glaciers, snow-clad peaks, meandering rivers, thick forests, flourishing wildlife, rolling meadows, unrivaled ski slopes and golf courses, floral valleys, magical moonscapes, several world heritage monuments, and beautiful beaches have innumerable tourism and travel options to inspire fantasies and dreams of all tourists who come here.

Many of the holidays we celebrate today all around the world, started out as small, regional affairs.  Halloween, for instance, was once an Irish Gaelic harvest festival which, after being picked up in Great Britain, spread throughout the world.  But every formerly-regional holiday like Halloween that we all have come to know and love, there are many more that too many people still have no clue about.  Two of those are Holi and Diwali, both of them major Indian holidays. 

            Holi is a popular Indian springtime festival.  It doesn’t have a concrete date, but instead is celebrated depending upon the full moon (much like Easter in Christianity).  According to Hinduism, an egotistical king named Hiranyakshyap wanted all of his people to worship him, and, in his quest for power, his own daughter, named Holika, was burned alive.  Thought it may not seem to make much sense to send Holi ecards in celebration of a girl’s death, the Hindu people look upon Holi as a symbolic triumph of faith; for Holika was though to be immune from fire, and after she entered into a secret pact with her father (turning against her own religion) her immunity vanished. 

            In fact, Holi is seen by the Indian people as an incredibly festive occasion, and is known popularly as the Festival of Colors.  Literally, this is because Hindus believe that during Holi, many different colors, containing spiritual nourishment, travel throughout the universe.  And during Holi festivals, people burn bonfires and squirt colored waters onto each other, to encourage these spiritual nourishment colors along.  Many other Holi rituals exist, as well.  One of the most famous involves people tossing colorful water balloons at each other.  And in Barsana, an elaborate ritual is played out, in which men sing to women, who then (good-naturedly) attack their would-be suitors with sticks.

            Another popular Indian festival is Diwali, a Festival of Lights that takes place in the autumn.  Hindus believe that long ago, the sixth Guru of Sikhism finally returned to his people after a very long exile.  The people felt that the Guru’s absence they have lived in spiritual darkness, and so his returning was seen as a great illumination.  It’s another festive occasion, and perfect for sending Diwali ecards  

            On top of the story of the returning Guru, Hindus also celebrate Diwali as a time to reflect on one’s own inner light.  Hinduism holds very tightly to the notion that outside of our physical bodies, there is a more powerful, spiritual body—an inner light, in other words. 

            What both of these holidays share is that they are both times for being to gather together, and celebrate joyously!