WORLD is a book and those who do not travel have read only one page.
Explore uncertain roads, unknown destinations and diverse cultures with Travel Diaries.
Let's have a walk to market
- Are you crazy!! we will take the Car
Why don't we use stairs - Are you nuts!! 5 floors by Stairs
मेरे से और पैदलनहीं चला जाएगा, please call a Taxi
Above sounds pretty familiar responses. But what surprises more is that, when
these responses come from otherwise perfectly healthy-looking people.
Time to realize that Fitness
is not just limited to looking good or healthy outer appearance or having Macho
physique / chiseled slim bodies. Inner health is as crucial to overall fitness
which includes stamina for long walks, skipping elevators for embracing stairs
for daily activities or may be taking a walk to the nearest market.
So, Overall Fitness =
Right Nutrition + Exercise.
Nutrition and exercise
are the basic maintenance for both a healthy mind and a healthy body. But Exercise
without right nutrition may not provide the desired outcome and may lead to
quick burnout. Healthy or nutrition filled eating is a
crucial element to a healthy lifestyle and an area I think is worth investing
in. After all, to think well, to love well and to sleep well one has to also “EAT WELL”.
Have heard since childhood and there are many people out
there who assume and preach that do not mind as healthy food is most of time boring and
tasteless. However, Saffola Fittify shows the other way with delicious preparations full of nutrition. Check for yourself, Travel Diaries received following Food items from
Saffola:
Western Ghats, the mountain ranges which is older than Himalayas stretches along the Western coast of India for approx. 1600 km. The mountain ranges are endowed withdiverse ecosystems ranging from tropical wet evergreen forests to montane grasslands containing variety of flora, fauna and numerous medicinal plants.
However, in ancient
times these lush green Western Ghats once had witnessed a severe and long spell
of drought for more than 100 years. Then, Maharishi Gautam did a long
meditation to please Lord Shiva and requested Lord Shiva to allow Goddess Ganga
to appear at this place. Pleased by Maharishi Gautam, Lord Shiva happily agreed
to the request and so did Goddess Ganga. But Goddess Ganga put a condition that
she will appear here only if Lord Shiva also stays here in this region.
Lord Shiva agreed to
this condition as well and released Goddess Ganga from his locks, “Jatas” at Brahmagiri
mountains, which is adjacent to Trimbakeshwar temple. Ganga river which
appeared here was initially known by the name Gautami River (after Maharishi
Gautam) and is now called as “River Godavari”. And since then, Lord Shiva has
been residing in the form of” Lord Trimbakeshwar”, meaning God with 3 eyes in this region, in fact Brahmagiri mountain is considered as a form of Lord Shiva.
Subsequently a temple was built to worship Lord Shiva at the place. Trimbakeshwar
Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva and is one of the
holiest places for Hindu pilgrims and devotees.
Once you are in the temple premises after praying to the
Lord Shiva, clicking the beautiful architecture will keep you occupied for
reasonable time.
Since ancient times, the temple
has been renovated and upgraded by various rulers of the region. The present
Trimbakeshwar temple was constructed by 3rd Peshwa Balaji Bajirao during
1740-1761, at the site of old existing temple and subsequently renovated by
Ahilyabai Holkar in 1789. The Jyotirlinga here in the temple is in the form of 3 faced Linga,
symbolizing trinity of Gods - Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.
From entry to the
temple –
Till the exit from the sacred sanctum, exquisite
carvings adorn the temple walls.
Architecture of temple is a lesson in symmetric
geometry, you may spend a whole day to locate any flaw in the design:
Nasik is well connected by roads, trains and airways. Mumbai to Nasik takes around 5 hours by
road and the road takes you on a refreshing journey from the valleys to the
origin of river Godavari in Nasik. Since pilgrims and devotees from all over India come to this temple, be prepared to witness long ques for entry to the temple, irrespective of time of the day. Enjoy the experience of standing in the que, along with other devotees.
This is the skyline of Trimbakeshwar with Brahmagiri mountain sitting majestic atop-
# - Godavari
river is the 2nd longest river in India, which flows for around 1450 km. and
finally meets with Bay of Bengal.
# - Trimbakeshwar is located at the foot of
Brahamagiri hill, about 3000 feet above sea level.
Trimbakeshwar town is an ancient Hindu Pilgrim centre
located at the source of the Godavari River, the longest river in peninsular
India.
Ever thought, why a certain
calmness prevails over as soon as we enter our temples or take part in any
religious celebrations in our homes or anywhere. Is this a magic?
There must be some magic or perhaps it is the aura created by the soothing
fragrances coming out from the sacred herbs used in the celebrations / auspicious occasions. Since ancient times, people in India have been using
natural fragrances of Loban, Guggal and Dhoop Sticks on various occasions. Even
Ayurveda has given due emphasis on effect of using natural fragrances on
overall wellbeing as well as purifying the environment. Loban and Guggal are the herbs, widely used in households,
Ashrams, Temples, Gurudwara, Yoga centres, meditation sessions, etc.
Would like to mention specifically about Loban (Gum Benzoin), which is also
considered as a good medicine in Ayurveda and has a great significance in spreading
positive vibes and purifying the environment. Granules of Loban are regularly burnt
in places of worship and meditation centres to create an atmosphere conducive for holy rituals and other activities.
Inhaling Loban fumes is beneficial
in calming the mind, stopping vomiting, treatment of cough, reducing
abdominal pain and arthritis. Spiritually Loban is used to elevate the energy level by cleansing
and unblocking the human body energy centres.
Pure Loban is yellow in colour and is infested with antiseptic
properties and daily use of Loban in evenings is helpful in keeping pests/ insects out of the house, naturally. My father regularly fumes Loban in the evenings and spread the fumes in the entire house. After spreading of Loban fumes, the house atmosphere
gets relaxing. He used to burn the Loban in an open diya to spread the fumes
around the house, till I found this beautiful, easy to handle and antique looking Brass
Loban Fumer -
Only problem with Loban burnt in an open diya or in a plate is that it must be kept at safe place and away from reach of
kids, however this Brass Loban Fumer is safe to use and can be placed anywhere.
At times kids also enjoy spreading the fumes in entire house.
To generate Loban fumes and spread the aroma, either you
can use ready to burn Loban cups available in markets or burn the Loban granules with some Havan Samagri or with a
small portion of dhoop. I prepared a base from dhoop to fume loban granules:
Inhaling Loban aroma calms the mind and help in
reducing chest secretions. Loban fumes are a traditional and spiritual means to
uplift the energy levels and has been used for centuries by saints and kings. Feel
the richness of Indian royalty in your home with this LOBAN FUMER casted in
brass. Greenish texture on the intricate design makes it even more appealing and an endearing Lifestyle accessory. The Fumer ensures slow burning of Loban and long-lasting fumes.
Not only Loban, the
Fumer can be used for placing Nagchampa and Patchouli dhoop cones. Soothing aromas of Nag Champa and Patchouli in charcoal-free dhoop cones will help uplifting your mood.
Stand to place the dhoop cones is also includedwith the package. Just ignite the cone and relax. Unless the stand is disturbed, the residual ash from the dhoop cones will not fall down. Each packet came with 40 dhoop cones to ensure at least a month of relaxing atmosphere.
These dhoop cones are made with organic ingredients and hand-rolled by women artisans keeping your wellness in mind. With every EK Dhoop stick that you light, you bring our rich traditions roots and wellness to your homes.
I have received following 3 items from
WorldofEK; Brass Loban Fumer, two packets of Dhoop Cones and one Green leaf textured Ceramic Mug:
I received the above items in this packing:
Going by the size of the items, one packet would have been sufficient to put all the 3 items together, so
initially I thought that “Over packing”. However, when I opened the packets, I
realised the due care and efforts by EK team to ensure the items are transported without any
possibility of wear and tear during the transit.
·Packing - As I always say, packing is the last activity for the Seller but is the first impression for the Buyer. I will give full marks for the packing and will surely be not bothered about any damage to even fragile items during transportation by WorldofEK.
·Appearance - Preparing an Antique is a time taking process. The Brass Fumer is worth the amount you spend.
·Delivery Time - Received the items on 3rd day from day of ordering.
·Ease of Use - Lift the lid of Brass Loban Fumer, put the Dhoop/ Loban or Guggal and enjoy Aromatherapy. Need not worry about spillage of ashes.
As the emphasis for natural and holistic well-being is garnering steam especially after the recent Pandemic era, better to try our natural and traditional recipes for overall well being. Along with improving the well being, the Brass Fumer will be a coveted addition to your Elite Lifestyle choices.
This is me, soaking in the Aromatherapy with the fragrance of Patchouli Dhoop cone placed inside Brass Fumer and enjoying a Herbal Tea in this beautiful Green leaf textured Ceramic Mug to relax after a day's hard work:
The size of mug is just perfect for an extended late evening coffee or Tea session with family or friends or for relaxing in solace.
About EK:World of EK is an initiative by Ektaa R. Kapoor
to bring the best of India to our homes. The products are designed thoughtfully
keeping in mind the impact they have on one's well-being- the material,
designs/patterns used in the products have a deep-rooted significance in Indian
culture. Most of the products are handcrafted by artisans to promote Indian
craftmanship.
Walls of Gwalior Fort have been a silent and bruised witness to tides of history. These walls have celebrated the glory, and have withstood battering by the invaders as well. Why not, earliest evidence say the Fort was built as early as 727 AD and was subsequently refurbished, expanded and provided its present shape in 15th century.
Also considered as the impenetrable Forts in India, the Western Gate of
the Gwalior Fort is one of the striking parts of the Fort. However, most of the
visitors unknowingly miss it out over the Gwalior Fort. Also, the local travel planners/
guides generally do not inform about this stunning Western entrance to the Gwalior Fort, known as Urwai Gate which greets
the visitors with colossal rock cut architecture.
The right-hand view from the Fort
entry gate, metal road going up the hill ensures visitors miss out noticing the
rock cut carvings and also roadside trees covering the view of these marvellous
rock cut caricatures do not help the cause of these monuments. I too would have missed, had I not came across this view, while going up the hill and if I had not asked at the gate about these Rock-Cut sculptures.
The
charming affair for exploring offbeat and marvellous hidden spots continues non-stop
with Gwalior and nearby Chambal Ravines. I had a day in hand and thankfully got
a car to drive, so Chambal Ravines were again the natural choice for exploring
some more unexplored spots. What else this Vagabond would have thought of when
Life gave him a spare day and a vehicle to drive.
It
took me around one hour from Gwalior to locate, ask locales about the way and finally reach
Shanichara Temple, situated deep inside remote corners of Chambal
Ravines. Dedicated to Shani Dev, such a Grand Temple at such a remote location
arouses curiosity to know about the history of the place as much as quest to explore another hidden spot.
Whenever I used to drive to Jaipur from Delhi via NH48, I always
used to thank government for the Smooth Ride. It was going on like this for
ages, till one day I decided to explore what it is on right and left turns of this legendary highway.
At one instant while driving from Delhi to
Jaipur, one left turn had taken me to Bhangarh and ancient Neelkanth Mahadev Mandir. So,
to explore what is there on the right side of NH48, I started Zooming-In the
Google maps before Jaipur and I found one spot called “Triveni Dham”, approx.
12-13 km. from Shahpura.
It was the time to put to
practice what I always tell - “Taking a couple of breaks to appreciate the
beauty of the roads and surrounding spots will not delay your journey but will
surely add the Magic to your spirits”. So, within half an hour from taking a
right turn I was at Triveni Dham and in front of me was a grand temple premises at the
bottom of a hill.
To think well, love well, and to sleep well one
has toalso “EAT WELL”. I feel fascinated when I come across
people maintaining leading active life in their 70’s, 80’s and even beyond. And
they are all roaring to go past 100 with same passion.
Whenever
I come across these legends, I always gets motivated to their lifestyle and
passion for long living. Some of them are practicing Yoga daily, some are doing
mild exercise daily, some go for regular walking, and some follow strict
disciplined daily routine depending on their choice. However, on thing common
with all is that they all are also follow healthy eating habits. Foods
promoting immunity is an essential part of their diets. And switching to Organic Food is an easiest way to EAT Well.
Contents in the pack:
Kathal ka Achar (Jackfruit Pickle), Mushroom Soup, Black Grape Jam, Honey & Tea Gift Hamper, Roasted Flax seeds
Also knows as Jackfruit, it is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world. Eatable matter inside its thick, bumpy shell can be used for preparing a variety of dishes, it can be eaten raw or processed into delicious PICKLE.
However, to prepare pickle by yourself make sure you apply oil on your hands and the knife to peel the KATHAL to avoid sticking it to your hands. My mother used to prepare it long back. No-preservative’s, just right SALT preparation from ISayOrganic ensure the goodness and rich taste as our grandmother’s recipes. I loved it, so did elders and kids with Desi Ghee Lachcha Parantha. Half of the bottle was emptied within a day.
A warm bowl
of soup so delicious with small tender bites of mushroom pieces, flavoured with
pinch of garlic and black pepper to compliment the natural flavour of
mushrooms.
Yes, this soup is good for individuals with heart issues and will invoke your hunger after 10-15
minutes of having it. Just follow the quantity mix mentioned on the bottle and enjoy the soup, healthy and sumptuous.
Price - ₹ 170 | Quantity – 100 g.
Black Grape Jam
As
compared to other grapes, Black grapes contain high amount of antioxidants
which protect your body cells from damage, help in faster healing from illness
and in boosting immunity as well.
Sustainably grown and freshly sourced black grapes from
Nagpur are carefully crushed for a rich tasting Black Fruit Jam. The sweetness is also kept optimum to ensure it does not affect the taste of Grapes. Crushed portions
of Grape multiply the delight of enjoying the Jam with your Bread, Cakes or may
be Chapati. The price looks slightly on a higher side, shall be looked into.
The
honey is polyfloral, where nectar is collected from many flowers.
Having a cup of Tea in
morning blended with black Assam tea,
dehydrated ginger, turmeric, giloy, Ajwain and an array of herbs & spices will remove toxins from the body. Both honey & green tea are rich in antioxidants that help renew
skin cells giving it a glowing and younger look.
Taste - Infested with herbs, ImmuniTEA let us savor the flavor of all the herbs. Pinch of Ajwain makes for a soothing experience and above all this Tea does not taste bitter like normal Green teas. Goodness of herbal Tea with taste of Masala Tea to summarize in few words.
Price
- ₹ 599 | Quantity – 1 unit: 200 g. Wild
Forest Honey + 125 g. ImmuniTEA
Roasted Flax seeds
Loaded
with fiber and provide good amounts of protein, Flax seeds need no
introduction. Quality may be a concern at times, when buying in open. I am myself taking a tablespoon of these Flax Seeds with Milk, daily morning.
Slight pinch of Salt makes
munching of these roasted flaxseeds more enjoying. Trust me our native foods
are more nutritious than any other supplements.
Temple which was originally called as Sahastrabahu Temple, is now popularly known as Saas bahu temple. How come?
In
the ancient times, there was a king, King Mahipala whose wife was a devotee of
Lord Vishnu. So, this temple was built by King Mahipala in the year 1092
depicting Lord Vishnu with thousand arms, Sahastrabahu. Hence the temple, an
architectural marvel was originally called as Sahastrabahu temple. Located at eastern part of Gwalior Fort, the first look appearance of the temple is simply mind blowing.
When was the last time you drove for 6-7 hours since early morning, just to visit that splendid spot?
When
you are in the country known India, there are many such spots which are
destinations in themselves. Even a whole day travel is worth to just spend
30-40 minutes at the spot. Ancient
Teli-Ka Mandir in Gwalior is one such spot. Colossal size, splendid
architecture, intricate carvings of Gods and Goddesses and image of Garuda,
vehicle of Lord Vishnu make this temple a complete destination.
More than 100 ft. in
height, the temple is a unique blend of different Indian architectural styles.
It is the tallest structure in the Gwalior Fort. Check out the different styles
of lower half and the upper dome.
State where once Rolls Royce’s were deployed to
collect garbage, could not have been an ordinary place. Legend of Maharaja Jai
Singh of Alwar is well known, how he bought Rolls Royce company to its
knees. Apart from the legend of Maharaja jai Singh Alwar is acclaimed worldwide
for its famous dessert Kalakand (Milk-Cake).
Located midway between Delhi and Jaipur, Alwar is
one of the oldest cities in Rajasthan, with history going back to the time when
Viratnagar used to be flourishing center. Viratnagar, the same Matsya Desh dating
back to the times of Mahabharata, where Pandavas spent last year of the 13 years of exile. Despite located close to Delhi, Alwar somehow
gets missed out from the itinerary as crowds prefer opulence of Jaipur or
probably information about unseen spots in Alwar is rather limited.
Alwar City has several spots, which make it a worthy
weekend getaway destination. Though Alwar is a dry region, but has a celestial
Siliserh lake, which shall be the first spot in the Alwar itinerary. The Siliserh Lake is a big
man-made lake, constructed by Vinay Singh in year 1845 AD and was supposed to provide the water supply reserves for Alwar state.
