ABOUT GOA

Goa is a state in western India with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea. Its long history as a Portuguese colony prior to 1961 is evident in its preserved 17th-century churches and the area’s tropical spice plantations. Goa is also known for its beaches, ranging from popular stretches at Baga and Palolem to those in laid-back fishing villages such as Agonda.

The land of mellow sunshine and sandy beaches, flavourful cuisine and pungent feni, crumbling architecture right out of a bygone era, river cruises, water sports, hot air ballooning, all this and more is part and parcel of a holiday in the Indian Paradise known as Goa. With its geographical and cultural diversity, Goa has something to offer everyone. From the balmy sea breezes to the vanilla scented air of the spice farms, the tropical beaches to the cool Dudhsagar waterfalls*, panoramic ocean vistas or ancient man-made edifices, spicy cuisine to continental fare, luxurious five star hotels or little seaside shacks Goa can satisfy your appetite for almost anything.

A Short History

A land which is said to have been created by Lord Parshuram, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, the creator God, Goa lies on the western coast of India in the Konkan region. Ruled by many dynasties over the centuries from Rashtrakutas to the Bahamani Muslims and most recently the Portuguese colonists, Goa has amalgamated the essence of each of these into one glorious whole.

Goa was liberated from the Portuguese in 1961 when the Indian government and a group of dedicated freedom fighters finally annexed it to India. It was initially annexed as a Union Territory, and later achieved statehood on the 30th of May 1987, when it became the 25th Indian state.

Geography

Sheltered by the lush green Sahayadri mountain range and nourished by the abundant South west monsoons Goa has fresh water galore. Rivers like the Mandovi* and Zuari* meander through the interiors, providing sheltered nooks wherein lie little fishing hamlets, surrounded by coconut trees and cocooned in peace and serenity. In addition to coastal and inland waterways, Goa also boasts an international airport, located at Dabolim*, near Vasco* (one of the major townships). There are also plenty of local buses that ferry tourists and locals alike to and from their destinations. For the more adventurous there are the ubiquitous pilots (scooter drivers) to be found at all the major tourist hotspots.

Architecture and Religious Monuments

The Portuguese influences are evident in the crumbling stone facades of gracious churches and formidable forts that they constructed to protect their lands from enemy invasions. Goa contains many superb examples of art and architecture for the cultural enthusiast, ranging from the world famous Bom Jesus Basilica* to the landmark Mahalaxmi temple* at Panaji* (the capital city) or even the impregnable Aguada Fort*. Like everything else within its borders the art and architecture of Goa is culturally diverse and ranges from the ancient to the modern, often side by side in a brilliant juxtaposition which delights the eye and intrigues the mind.

People and Culture

The people of Goa have a warmth and joie de vivre which makes everyone feel welcome and at home. Nowhere else will you find the distinct blend of bonhomie, tranquillity, savoir faire and enthusiasm, known locally as “susegaad”, which comes so naturally to the average Goan. Whether affably instructing the tourist on the history and lore of the land, taking the more adventurous out for fishing and water sports* or bargaining fiercely over the prices of handicrafts*, Goans retain a certain charm and inherent likeability.

Due to its multitude of cultural influences, Goan culture is perhaps unique from that of India. With a predominantly Hindu and Christian population (Islam and other religions being in the minority) Goa has a long and unbroken tradition of religious tolerance and harmony, with the people celebrating festivals like Ganesh Chaturti, Sao Jao* and Eid with equal pomp and fervour.

Cuisine

The traditional Goan cuisine* combines the best of Indian and Portuguese tastes. Whether one is enjoying a delicately spiced, coconut laden dish of fish curry and rice, or a spicy plate of pork vindalho or goa sausage, the food is a mouth-watering, sensual feast the likes of which is hard to come by elsewhere. With fresh caught fish, prawns and crustaceans, the Goan chef produces gastronomic delights which range from the simplicity of rava fried shrimp to delicately sautéed kalamari to Goan curries which combine coconut milk, vinegar and spices into a bouquet that explodes on the tongue and delights the senses.

Adventure and Water Sports

However, not everything in Goa is steeped in tradition. Of late, there have been a number of adventure sports, water sports and leisure activities that have steadily been gaining prominence on the Goa tourist’s agenda. Some are available at the beaches, like water scooters, parasailing, etc others, like helicopter joy rides, hot air balloons and river cruises have a specific starting point that you would need to reach.

With such a multifarious array of choices there is no shortage of options for the Goa tourist. Above all, Goa gives one a chance to rest, relax and recharge, whilst surrounded by the best of all cultural influences.

अयोध्या राम मंदिर का इतिहास

अयोध्या में राम मंदिर या मस्जिद आखिर क्या ? अयोध्या विवाद भारत के हिंदू और मुस्लिम समुदाय के बीच तनाव का एक प्रमुख मुद्दा रहा है और देश की राजनीति को एक लंबे अरसे से प्रभावित करता रहा है.

भारतीय जनता पार्टी और विश्वहिंदू परिषद सहित कई हिंदू संगठनों का दावा है कि हिंदुओं के आराध्यदेव राम का जन्म ठीक वहीं हुआ जहाँ बाबरी मस्जिद थी.

उनका दावा है कि बाबरी मस्जिद दरअसल एक मंदिर को तोड़कर बनवाई गई थी और इसी दावे के चलते छह दिसंबर 1992 को बाबरी मस्जिद गिरा दी गई.

इसके अलावा वहाँ ज़मीन के मालिकाना कब्ज़े का विवाद है.

अयोध्या विवाद को दशकों बीत रहे हैं। मसला आज भी जस का तस है। विवाद इस बात पर है कि देश के हिंदूओं की मान्यता के अनुसार अयोध्या की विवादित जमीन भगवान राम की जन्मभूमि है जबकि देश के मुसलमानों की पाक बाबरी मस्जिद भी विवादित स्थल पर स्थित है।

मुस्लिम सम्राट बाबर ने फतेहपुर सीकरी के राजा राणा संग्राम सिंह को वर्ष 1527 में हराने के बाद इस स्थान पर बाबरी मस्जिद का निर्माण किया था। बाबर ने अपने जनरल मीर बांकी को क्षेत्र का वायसराय नियुक्त किया। मीर बांकी ने अयोध्या में वर्ष 1528 में बाबरी मस्जिद का निर्माण कराया।

इस बारे में कई तह के मत प्रचलित हैं कि जब मस्जिद का निर्माण हुआ तो मंदिर को नष्ट कर दिया गया या बड़े पैमाने पर उसमे बदलाव किये गए। कई वर्षों बाद आधुनिक भारत में हिंदुओं ने फिर से राम जन्मभूमि पर दावे करने शुरू किये जबकि देश के मुसलमानों ने विवादित स्थल पर स्थित बाबरी मस्जिद का बचाव करना शुरू किया।

राष्ट्रीय स्वयंसेवक संघ के प्रमुख मोहन भागवत के अयोध्या में राम मंदिर के बारे में दिए गए बयान से राजनीति एक बार फिर गरमा गई है। बुधवार को कोलकाता में एक सभा को संबोधि‍त करते हुए भागवत ने कहा कि अगर भव्य मंदिर बनाना है तो बलिदान देने की तैयारी भी रखनी होगी।  हालांकि, मंदिर निर्माण के समय को लेकर उन्होंने कोई बयान नहीं दिया। हां इतना ज़रूर कहा कि राम मंदिर उनके जीवनकाल में बनेगा।

भागवत के बयान के बाद शीर्षस्थ उपन्यासकार स्वर्गीय कमलेश्वर के सन् 2000 में प्रकाशित बहुचर्चित उपन्यास ‘कितने पाकिस्तान’ की चर्चा करना समीचीन होगा,  जिसमें तथ्यों के हवाला देते हुए बताया गया है कि अयोध्या में न कभी बाबरी मस्जिद नाम की मस्जिद थी और न ही राम मंदिर।

कहने का मतलब अयोध्या में जिस विवादित रामजन्मभूमि-बाबरी मस्जिद को लेकर सन् 1949 से देश में विवाद और दंगे-फ़साद हो रहे हैं, जिसके चलते लाखों हिंदू और मुसलमान आज भी एक दूसरे के दुश्मन बने हुए हैं, वहां न बाबरी मस्जिद थी और न ही राम मंदिर। क़िताब का सारांश यह है कि भारत में हिंदू और मुसलमानों में विवाद की बीज अंग्रेज़ों ने एक साज़िश के तहत बोया था, जिसकी परिणति सन् 1947 में देश के विभाजन के रूप में हुई थी।

कमलेश्वर ने इस उपन्यास पर काम रामजन्मभूमि आंदोलन शुरू होने के बाद किया था और 10-12 साल के रिसर्च, स्टडी और ऐतिहासिक तथ्यों की छनबीन के बाद ‘कितने पाकिस्तान’ को लिखा है। उन्होंने क़िताब में बताने की कोशिश की है कि वहां बाबरी मस्जिद या राम मंदिर नहीं था।

उपन्यास को नामवर सिंह, विष्णु प्रभाकर, अमृता प्रीतम, राजेंद्र यादव, हिमांशु जोशी और अभिमन्यु अनत जैसे साहित्यकारों-लेखकों ने विश्व-उपन्यास कहते हुए उसकी जमकर तारीफ की थी। उस समय क़रीब-क़रीब हर प्रमुख हिंदी ही नहीं अंग्रेज़ी अख़बार में इसकी समीक्षा भी छपी थी।

अटलबिहारी वाजपेयी के नेतृत्व वाली एनडीए सरकार के कार्यकाल में क़िताब को साहित्य अकादमी पुरस्कार दिया गया था। उस समय एचआरडी मिनिस्टर हिंदुत्व और राम मंदिर आंदोलन के पैरोकार डॉ. मुरली मनोहर जोशी थे। ज़ाहिर है अगर कमलेश्वर के निष्कर्ष से सरकार को किसी भी तरह की आपत्ति होती, तो कम से कम क़िताब को सरकारी पुरस्कार नहीं दिया जाता। अमूमन यह माना जाता है कि कोई सरकार किसी क़िताब को पुरस्कृत तब करती है जब वह सरकार क़िताब में लिखी हर बात से सहमत होती है।

कमलेश्वर ने बड़ी ख़ूबसूरती से समय और किरदार की सीमाओं से परे ‘कितने पाकिस्तान’ की रचना की है। मुख्य किरदार अदीब यानी लेखक ‘समय की अदालत’ लगाता है, जिसमें महात्मा गांधी, मोहम्मद अली जिन्ना, जवाहरलाल नेहरू, अली बंधु, लार्ड माउंटबेटन, बाबर, हुमायूं, औरंगजेब, कबीर जैसे सैकड़ों ऐतिहासिक किरदारों ने ख़ुद अपने-अपने बयान दर्ज कराए हैं।

यही नहीं अदालत में कई दर्जन विश्व-प्रसिद्ध इतिहासकारों ने भी हर विवादास्पद घटनाओं पर अपना बयान दिया है। सभी बयानात इतिहास, अंग्रेज़ों द्वारा तैयार गजेटियर, पुरातात्विक दस्तावेज़ों और नामचीन हस्तियों की आत्मकथाओं में उपलब्ध जानकारियों पर आधारित हैं। इनकी प्रमाणिकता पर संदेह नहीं किया जा सकता।

‘कितने पाकिस्तान’ में कई चैप्टर अयोध्या विवाद को समर्पित हैं। उपन्यास के मुताबिक अयोध्या में मस्जिद बाबर के भारत पर आक्रमण करने से पहले ही मौजूद थी। बाबर 20 अप्रैल 1526 को इब्राहिम का सिर क़लम करके आगरा की गद्दी पर बैठा था और हफ़्ते भर बाद 27 अप्रैल 1526 को उसके नाम का ख़ुतबा पढ़ा गया।

क़िताब के मुताबिक, अयोध्या की मस्जिद (बाबरी मस्जिद नहीं)  में एक शिलालेख बनाया गया था, जिसका जिक्र ब्रिटिश अफ़सर ए फ़्यूहरर ने कई जगह किया है। फ़्यूहरर ने 1889 में आख़िरी बार उस शिलालेख को पढ़ा था, जिसे बाद में अंग्रेज़ों ने नष्ट करवा दिया। शिलालेख के मुताबिक अयोध्या में मस्जिद का निर्माण इब्राहिम लोदी के शासन में उसी के आदेश पर 1523 में शुरू हुआ और 1524 में मस्जिद पूरी हुई।

इतना ही नहीं, शिलालेख के मुताबिक, मस्जिद किसी मंदिर को तोड़कर नहीं, बल्क़ि ख़ाली जगह पर बनाई गई थी। इसका यह भी मतलब होता है कि अगर विवादित स्थल पर राम या किसी दूसरे देवता का मंदिर था, जिसके अवशेष खुदाई करने वालों को मिले हैं, तो वह 14वीं सदी से पहले नेस्तनाबूद कर दिया गया होगा या ख़ुद ही नष्ट हो गया होगा। उसे कम से कम बाबर या मीरबाक़ी ने नहीं तोड़वाया जैसा कि इतिहासकारों का एक बड़ा तबक़ा और हिंदूवादी नेता दावा करते आ रहे हैं।

दरअसल, ‘कितने पाकिस्तान’ के मुताबिक लोदी के शिलालेख को नष्ट करने में अंग्रेज़ अफ़सर एचआर नेविल ने अहम भूमिका निभाई। सारी ख़ुराफ़ात और साज़िश का सूत्राधार नेविल ही था। बाद में उसने ही आधिकारिक तौर पर फ़ैज़ाबाद का गजेटियर तैयार किया था। नेविल की साज़िश में एक और दूसरा गोरा अफ़सर कनिंघम भी शामिल था, जिसे ब्रिटिश हुक़ूमत ने हिंदुस्तान की पुरानी इमारतों की हिफ़ाज़त की ज़िम्मेदारी दी थी। कनिंघम ने बाद में लखनऊ का गजेटियर तैयार किया था।

क़िताब के मुताबिक दोनों अफ़सरों ने धोखा और साज़िश के तहत गजेटियर में दर्ज किया कि 1528 में अप्रैल से सितंबर के बीच एक हफ़्ते के लिए बाबर अयोध्या आया और राम मंदिर को तोड़कर वहां बाबरी मस्जिद नींव रखी। यह भी लिखा कि अयोध्या पर हमले के दौरान लड़ाई में बाबर की सेना ने एक लाख चौहत्तर हज़ार हिंदुओं को मार दिया।

फ़ैज़ाबाद के गजेटियर में आज देखें तो मिलेगा कि 1869 में, बाबर के कथित आक्रमण के क़रीब साढ़े तीन सौ साल बाद, अयोध्या-फ़ैज़ाबाद की आबादी महज़ दस हज़ार थी, जो 1881 में बढ़कर साढ़े ग्यारह हज़ार हो गई। सवाल उठता है कि जिस शहर की आबादी इतनी कम थी वहां बाबर या उसकी सेना ने इतने लोगों की हत्या कैसे की या फिर इतने मरने वाले कहां से आ गए? यहीं तथ्य बाबरी मस्जिद के बारे में देश में बनी मौजूदा धारणा पर गंभीर संदेह होता है।

हैरान करने वाली बात है कि दोनों अफ़सरों नेविल और कनिंघम ने सोची-समझी नीति के तहत बाबर की डायरी बाबरनामा, जिसमें वह रोज़ाना अपनी गतिविधियां दर्ज करता था, के 3 अप्रैल 1528 से 17 सितंबर 1528 के बीच 20 से ज़्यादा पन्ने ग़ायब कर दिए और बाबरनामा में लिखे ‘अवध’ यानी‘औध’ को ‘अयोध्या’ कर दिया। मगर मस्जिद के शिलालेख के फ़्यूहरर के अनुवाद को ग़ायब करना ये दोनों अफ़सर भूल गए। वह अनुवाद आज भी र्कियोल़जिकल इंडिया की फ़ाइल में महफ़ूज़ है और ब्रितानी साज़िश को बेनकाब करता है।

इतना ही नहीं बाबर के मूवमेंट की जानकारी बाबरनामा की तरह हुमायूंनामा में भी दर्ज है। लिहाज़ा, बाबरनामा के ग़ायब किए गए पन्ने से नष्ट सूचनाएं हुमायूंनामा से ली जा सकती हैं। हुमायूंनामा के मुताबिक 1528 में बाबर अफ़गान हमलावरों का पीछा करता हुआ सरयू नदी तक ज़रूर गया था,  लेकिन उसी समय उसे अपनी बीवी बेग़म मेहम और अन्य खातूनों और बेटी बेग़म ग़ुलबदन समेत पूरे परिवार के काबुल से अलीगढ़ पहुंचने की इत्तिला मिली।

लंबे समय से युद्ध में उलझने की वजह से बाबर अपने परिवार से मिल नहीं पाया था, इसलिए वह फौरन अलीगढ़ रवाना हो गया और पत्नी-बेटी और परिवार के बाक़ी सदस्यों को लेकर आगरा आया। 10 जुलाई तक बाबर उनके साथ आगरा में ही रहा। उसके बाद बाबर परिवार के साथ धौलपुर चला गया। वहां से सिकरी पहुंचा, जहां सितंबर के दूसरे हफ़्ते तक रहा।

क़िताब के मुताबिक, गोस्वामी तुलसीदास से पहले जंबूद्वीप (तब भारत या हिंदुस्तान था ही नहीं था सो इस भूखंड को जंबूद्वीप कहा जाता था) के हिंदू धर्म के अनुयायी नटखट कृष्ण, शंकर जी और हनुमान जी की पूजा किया करते थे। कहीं-कहीं गणेश की पूजा होती थी। तब राम का उतना क्रेज नहीं था। तुलसीदास सन् 1498 में पैदा हुए थे और बाबर के कार्यकाल तक वह किशोर ही थे।

वहीं पत्नी के दीवाने तुलसीदास अपनी मायावी दुनिया में मशगूल थे। उन्‍होंने रामचरित मानस की रचना बुढापे में की, जो हुमायूं और अकबर का दौर था। राम का महिमामंडन तो तुलसीदास ने किया और हिंदी (अवधी) में रामचरित मानस रचकर राम को हिंदुओं के घर-घर स्थापित कर दिया। रामचरित मानस के प्रचलन में आने के बाद ही राम हिंदुओं आराध्‍य हुए।

‘कितने पाकिस्तान’ में कमलेश्वर ने ऐतिहासिक तथ्यों का सहारा लेकर दावा किया है कि 1857 के विद्रोह के बाद अंग्रेज़ चौकन्ने हो गए थे और ब्रिटिश इंडिया की नई पॉलिसी बनी, जिसके मुताबिक अंग्रेज़ों ने तय किया कि अगर इस उपमहाद्वीप पर लंबे समय तक शासन करना है, तो इसे धर्म के आधार पर विभाजित करना होगा। ताकि हिंदू और मुसलमान एक दूसरे से ही लड़ते रहें और उनका ध्यान आज़ादी जैसे मुद्दों पर न जाए। इसी नीति के तहत लोदी की मस्जिद ‘बाबरी मस्जिद’ बना दी गई और उसे ‘राम मंदिर’ से जोड़कर ऐसा विवाद खड़ा कर दिया जो कभी हल ही नहीं हो। अंग्रेज़ निश्चित रूप से सफल रहे क्योंकि उस वक़्त पैदा की गई नफ़रत ही अंततः देश के विभाजन की मुख्य वजह बनी।

हालांकि यह ज़िक्र करना समीचीन होगा कि चार साल पहले ऐतिहासिक तथ्यों के आधार पर इलाहाबाद हाईकोर्ट ने भी माना था कि अयोध्या में राम मंदिर को बाबर और उसके सूबेदार मीरबाक़ी ने 1528 में मिसमार करके वहां बाबरी मस्जिद का निर्माण करवाया। मीरबाक़ी का पूरा नाम मीरबाक़ी ताशकंदी था और वह अयोध्या से चार मील दूर सनेहुआ से सटे ताशकंद गांव का निवासी था। इसी तथ्य को आधार बनाकर हाईकोर्ट की लखनऊ पीठ ने सितंबर में बहुप्रतीक्षित ऐतिहासिक फ़ैसला सुनाया था

प्रमाणिक किताबों के अनुसार पुन: इस विवाद की शुरुआत सालों बाद वर्ष 1987 में हुई। वर्ष 1940 से पहले मुसलमान इस मस्जिद को मस्जिद-ए-जन्मस्थान कहते थे, इस बात के भी प्रमाण मिले हैं।

वर्ष 1947- भारत सरकार ने मुस लमानों के विवादित स्थल से दूर रहने के आदेश दिए और मस्जिद के मुख्य द्वार पर ताला डाल दिया गया जबकि हिंदू श्रद्धालुओं को एक अलग जगह से प्रवेश दिया जाता रहा।

वर्ष 1984- विश्व हिंदू परिषद ने हिंदुओं का एक अभियान शिरू किया कि हमें दोबारा इस जगह पर मंदिर बनाने के लिए जमान वापस चाहिए।

वर्ष 1989- इलाहाबाद उच्च न्यायलय ने आदेश दिया कि विवादित स्थल के मुख्य द्वारों को खोल देना चाहिए और इस जगह को हमेशा के लिए हिंदुओं को दे देना चाहिए। सांप्रदायिक ज्वाला तब भड़की जब विवादित स्थल पर स्थित मस्जिद को नुकसान पहुंचाया गया। जब भारत सरकार के आदेश के अनुसार इस स्थल पर नये मंदिर का निर्माण सुरू हुआ तब मुसलमानों के विरोध ने सामुदायिक गुस्से का रूप लेना शरु किया।
वर्ष 1992- 6 दिसंबर 1992 को बाबरी मस्जिद विध्वंस के साथ ही यह मुद्दा सांप्रदायिक हिंसा और नफरत का रूप लेकर पूरे देश में संक्रामक रोग की तरह फैलने लगा। इन दंगों में 2000 से ऊपर लोग मारे गए। मस्जिद विध्वंस के 10 दिन बाद मामले की जांच के लिए लिब्रहान आयोग का गठन किया गया। वर्ष 2003- उच्च न्यायालय के आदेश पर भारतीय पुरात्तव विभाग ने विवादित स्थल पर 12 मार्च 2003 से 7 अगस्त 2003 तक खुदाई की जिसमें एक प्राचीन मंदिर के प्रमाण मिले। वर्ष 2003 में इलाहाबाद उच्च न्यायल की लखनऊ बेंच में 574 पेज की नक्शों और समस्त साक्ष्यों सहित एक रिपोर्ट पेश की गयी। भारतीय पुरात्तव विभाग के अनुसार खुदाई में मिले भग्वशेषों के मुताबिक विवादित स्थल पर एक प्रचीन उत्तर भारतीय मंदिर के प्रचुर प्रमाण मिले हैं। विवादित स्थल पर 50X30 के ढांचे का मंदिर के प्रमाण मिले हैं। वर्ष 2005- 5 जुलाई 2005 को 5 आतंकियों ने अयोध्या के रामलला मंदिर पर हमला किया। इस हमले का मौके पर मौजूद सीआरपीएफ जवानों ने वीरतापूर्वक जवाब दिया और पांचों आतंकियों को मार गिराया। वर्ष 2010- 24 सितंबर 2010 को दोनों पक्षों की बहस सुनने के बाद इलाहाबाद उच्च न्यायालय की लखनऊ बेंच ने फैसले की तारीख मुकर्रर की थी। फैसले के एक दिन पहले सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने फैसले को टालने के लिए की यगयी एक याचिका पर सुनवाई करते हुए इसे 28 सितंबर तक के लिए टाल दिया।

LUCKNOW HISTORY

The origin & history of Lucknow is truly intriguing not just to the historians but also to the common man. The history of Lucknow can be traced back to the ancient times of the Suryavanshi Dynasty. It is said that Lakshmana, who was the brother of Lord Rama, laid the foundation of the ancient city. This was near the Gomti River on an elevated piece of land. It was then called Lakshmanpur. However, the city came into notice only during the 18th Century. To know more about Lucknow history, read further the information given below. 

It was during the year 1720 when the great Mughal emperors began to appoint Nawabs in order to ensure smooth administration in the province. In the year 1732, Mohammad Amir Saadat Khan was appointed as the viceroyal of Awadh, in which Lucknow was a major province. It was then that the powerful dynasty of the Nawabs, which changed the history of this unknown place. Under the rule of the Nawabs, Lucknow flourished like never before. After 1755, Lucknow grew by leaps and bounds under the rule of the fourth Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula. Lucknow flourished in each and every aspect, which includes poetry, dance, music and the other finer aspects of the lifestyle of Lucknow. 

It was when the British came to India that Lucknow was made into an administrative capital. There were many uprisings during the British rule by Indian radicals and many ghastly incidents left Lucknow with bad memories. However, after independence Lucknow was declared the capital of the state of Uttar Pradesh by the Government of India. Since then it has progressed beautifully, merging skillfully the past with the present.

Lucknow is a historic city, which is located on the banks of river Gomti. Hindi is the official language of the city, however, here the language finds its origin from Urdu. Traditionally, it was the capital of Awadh Pradesh and was administered by the Delhi Sultanate during Mughal rule. In the later stages, it was given to the Nawabs of Awadh.
After Lord Clive defeated the armies of the Nawab of Bengal, Nawab of Awadh as well as the Mughals, it went under the rule of the East India Company. In the year 1857, it went into the hands of the British Empire.

With the support of Maulana Abdul Bari of Firangi Mahal Lucknow, the Khilafat movement gained a lot of momentum and formed a solid footing in the city. In the year 1920, Lucknow was declared the provincial capital of the United Provinces, later known as Uttar Pradesh.

Culture and Cuisine:

Lucknow, which is considered to be The Golden City Of The East, has still kept its old -world charm absolutely intact, which is an appealing feature for the tourists. It is no exaggeration to call the capital of Uttar Pradesh, one of the finest cities of  the country in terms of mannerisms and culture.

The culture of Lucknow has a great feel and is an amalgamation of complete sophistication, warmth, manners (etiquette), courtesy and a fine taste in standard of living. Many cultural traits of the city have become the landmarks of ‘Tehzeeb’.

A lot of importance here is given to dance, music, literature, Urdu poetry and drama. The Nawabs of Awadh are the ones who should be given a credit of this as they had an interest in every walk of life. They appreciated perfection in everything.

Lucknow’s cuisine, also known as Awadhi cuisine has a unique- Nawabi style. The major highlights are biryanis, kebabs and some breads (nahari-kulchas, roomali rotis and warqi parathas).

Kebabs actually a specialty, are of various types such as Tunde ke Kebabs, Kakori Kebabs, Shami Kebabs, Galawati Kebabs, Boti Kababs, Patili-ke-Kababs, Seekh Kebabs and Ghutwa Kababs. Lucknow can be called a paradise for food lovers.

Handicrafts:

Lucknow is extremely popular for Chikan and Lucknavi Zardozi. Both of these are two kinds of stylish and delicate Indian embroideries. The export of these rich materials, forms a significant part of the revenue to the city. There is a huge demand of both these handcrafted embroideries, not only in India but in overseas markets as well.

Along with this, the other famous industry is small scale kite-making industry. Other famous products of Lucknow are its ‘Ittars’ (perfumes) and ‘Kivam’ (a tobacco product). The markets of Lucknow are filled with other handicrafts such as silver and gold foil work, bone carving products and pottery.

Tourist Attractions:

Lucknow boasts of being home to various tourist attractions. Roomi gate, Bada Imambada, Shah Mina Shah, Tare Wali Kothi, Dilkusha, Khursheed Manzil, Satkhanda, Shahi Baoli, Nadan Mahal, Banarsi Bagh, Chattar Manzil are some of well-known attractions for tourists.

Best Time to Visit:

Although the city is flocked by a large number of tourists all round the year but the best time to visit Lucknow is between the months of October to March. This is the peak season in terms of tourism. The other months witness either scorching summers or extremely chilly winters.

How to Reach Lucknow:

Lucknow is well-connected by all three modes of transport and reaching here is quite easy:

a.    By Air

Lucknow has its own independent airport. Flights to Lucknow operate from various important cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Ranchi etc.

b.    By Rail

There are two main railway junctions, one is at Lucknow city center  and the other one is at Charbagh (around 3 kms from the city center). Trains from all major cities halt at these stations.

c.    By Road

The major highways that pass through Lucknow are Lucknow N.H. – 56., N.H. – 28  and N.H. – 25. It is well-connected to important cities like Allahabad, Delhi, Agra, Kanpur etc.

Biography of Shri Narendra Modi

About Narendra Damodardas Modi

Narendra Modi is the current Prime Minister of India. He represents Varanasi constituency in the Lok Sabha. He is the most prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He is considered a master strategist for his party. He has been the Chief Minister of Gujarat for four consecutive terms.

Narendra Damodardas Modi has emerged as the indisputable champion of the Lok Sabha Election 2014 by delivering the party's best results ever in the general election of India. Modi, who worked as a tea-seller in his childhood, has come a very long way to have excelled in the report card of the world's largest-ever electoral exercise. He will now serve the nation as the Prime Minister, with the goal of implementing the Gujarat model of development throughout the nation. 

He took the oath as the Prime Minister of India in a lavish affair on 26 May 2014. 

Narendra Modi governed Gujarat for 13 years as its Chief Minister. He was selected by L K Advani, a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in 2001 to give a direction to the election campaign in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh. Modi was elected as the Chief Minister of Gujarat on 7 October 2001, and was been the longest-serving Chief Minister of the state. In the 2012 Gujarat legislative assembly election, he won his fourth consecutive term as the Chief Minister of Gujarat.


A career that started as an errand runner for the RSS (Hindu Right wing group) is now perhaps on the way to reach its zenith. Yes, Narendra Damodardas Modi has walked quite a distance wearing unflinching confidence on his sleeves. The former Gujarat Chief Minister and India's current Prime Minister candidate is a fascinating case study as the man opens up equal number of avenues for his critics as well as admirers. The man is admired for his economic policies and growth scenario in Gujarat, but he also bears flak for the dismal state of the Human Development Index in Gujarat. 

Now, since he has become the Prime Minister of India, let's have a deeper look into Narendra Modi's biography.

Humble Beginnings 

The idea of struggle was never very distant for Modi. He used to run a tea stall till the time RSS inducted him as a full-time member. With whatever minimal training he received from the party's associates, he surged ahead and exhibited enough capability to be given the charge of the ABVP (the student wing of RSS). His diligence and dedication towards the party hardly ebbed despite the fact that he was simultaneously pursuing a Master's degree in Political Science. This 'average student' from Vadnagar tutored himself to take greater steps on a national level.

Family

Although there isn't enough about Modi's personal life in the public domain, the political discourse sometimes throws up bits of facts and stories. He was born into a middle class family of six in Vadnagar in Mehsana District (then Bombay state) to Damodardas Mulchand Modi and Heeradben Modi. He was bethrothed when quite young, but chose to walk away from the marriage and has remained a bachelor.

Early days in Politics

Narendra Modi was drawn to politics in his early teens and was a member of Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS). During the 1960's India-Pakistan war, even though he was only a young boy, he volunteered to serve soldiers traveling through railway stations. As a youth, he became a member of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, a student body involved in anti-corruption. After having worked full time with them, he was then nominated as its representative in the BJP. Modi was also a campaigner in the RSS during his years in college and took on the task of encouraging the party members. Partnering with Shankersingh Vaghela, Modi began a strong cadre base in Gujarat. Narendra Modi has come from a humble background and is known for his simple lifestyle. He has a reputation of being a workaholic and introvert. Mr. Modi has tried to change his image from that of a Hindu Nationalist politician to that of a sincere administrator. 

The party began getting political attention and formed a coalition government in April 1990. After this, the BJP came to power in Gujarat in 1995. During this period, Modi was responsible for the Somnath to Ayodhya Rath Yatra and a similar trek from Kanyakumari in Southern India all the way up to Kashmir in the north. 

A careful observation of his rise to the national podium would evince how he remained glued to his fundamentals - continuing agitations during the nationwide Emergency, organizing Murli Manohar Joshi's Ekta yatra (journey for unity), and impressing everyone with electoral strategy ahead of the 1995 state elections. As BJP tasted victory, Modi relished his newly ordained post of the party's General Secretary. The workaholic and loyal 'sevak' moved to New Delhi to take up the new responsibility of managing the party's activities in Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. Three summers whizzed past and Modi already had the post of National Secretary of the BJP under his kitty.

First Stint as Chief Minister of Gujarat

Times were turbulent in Gujarat with allegations of corruption and poor governance doing the rounds. After Shankarsingh Vaghela left the BJP, Keshubhai Patel was made Chief Minister of Gujarat and Modi became General Secretary of the party in Delhi. Weak handling of the effects of the Bhuj Earthquake in 2001 prompted the BJP's national leaders to seek a new candidate as chief minister, after the removal of Keshubhai Patel. In October 2001, Modi was brought in to fill the vacuum and made Chief Minister of Gujarat despite his lack of experience in governance. Initially, the BJP was not very keen on having him at the forefront and the party was contemplating the position of deputy CM for him, which he refused. He wrote to Advani, and the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, stating that he was either "going to be fully responsible for Gujarat or not at all." In July 2007, he became the longest-serving Chief Minister in Gujarat's political history. 
In the Gujarat legislative assembly elections of 2012, Narendra Modi won the constituency of Maninagar over the Indian National Congress, with a majority of 86,373 votes. The BJP won 115 out of the 182 seats and formed its government in Gujarat. This was Narendra Modi's fourth term as the Chief Minister. The following year in March, he was appointed as member to the BJP Parliamentary Board which is the highest decision-making body of the party. He was also nominated as a member of the party's Central Election Committee. 

Taking Tough Calls

His rift with the VHP started to show after his much-criticized decision of demolishing 200 illegal temples in Gandhinagar. This was just the trailer. Modi was also vocal about PM Manmohan Singh's reluctance to revive anti-terror laws. He called for invoking tougher laws in states following the 2006 Mumbai blasts. Time and again, he has judiciously chosen issues to pontificate and attack the central government. In the wake of the November 2008 Mumbai attacks, Modi brought up the issue of security along Gujarat's coast. The UPA government acted upon this immediately and sanctioned construction of 30 high-speed surveillance boats. Recently, he came down heavily on the Central government for its weak approach towards Chinese incursions in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh and infiltration by Bangladeshis on the Indo-Bangladesh border.

Criticisms 

The Modi government came under bitter criticism following the 2002 Gujarat riots that betrayed the prevailing communal harmony within the state. Investigations were ordered into alleged abatement of crime. Modi's image suffered a quake as a common consensus was established that pointed fingers at the chief minister for allowing communal violence in the state. Some demanded his prosecution for promoting enmity among different communities during the riots. His way of functioning has also been the topic of much debate in the political arena with commentators and subject-matter experts lambasting him for carrying the DNA of fascist leadership. His critics call him a self-centered autocrat who doesn't care a hoot about the BJP. The Gujarat chief minister finds himself in the bad books of analysts as he is also accused of twisting facts to suit political motives on more than one occasion. 

In June 2013, when Narendra Modi's was appointed as the chairman of the national campaign committee, L K Advani submitted his resignation escalating his objection against Modi's appointment. But, the BJP leadership remained rigid on its choice to put Modi in front of 2014 campaign. 

A self-made man

Besides being a revered orator and a prolific writer, he is also a caring son and a man with his brand of humour. Those who have been associated with him for long are of the opinion that the idea of power is exciting to him. 

Next time you wonder how he could garner so much of national attention, think of this. He underwent a rigorous training in the US on public relations and image management.

When it comes to taking lessons on brand building, Modi says there's no greater inspiration than Mahatma Gandhi. His eulogies about Gandhi come from the fact that "He spoke of Ahimsa but carried a stick. He never wore a cap but the world wears a Gandhi Topi." Modi's careful metamorphosis from a Hindutva party man to a pro-development leader and change maker speaks volumes for his image-building ability. His two-year long escapade into the Himalayas and co-mingling with the yogic sadhus gave him a fair understanding of Hinduism. That partly explains why people listen to him in rapt attention when he talks of ideologies. 

Face of Development - Favorite among the leaders of India Inc.

Modi frequently refers to his P2G2 (Pro-people good governance) formula to substantiate his claims on holistic development. Some observers are of the opinion that Gujarat has been able to improve its agricultural output despite being a semi-arid state. The credit is given to the Gujarat government's measures to scale up groundwater projects and initiatives to increase the use of micro-irrigation.

India Inc. is almost unanimous in their verdict. They want Narendra Modi as the next PM. Reason? They seek a strong leadership that has a clear road-map and actionable plans ready for execution. Indian business leaders from Ratan Tata to Mukesh Ambani seem to be convinced that for India to come out of its Gross Domestic Paralysis, a visionary and decisive leadership is essential. Empirical evidence suggests that Gujarat has been able to position itself as a lucrative destination for investment. Under his aegis, according to a political commentator, the level of corruption receded and technology parks have seen the light of the day. His iconic call for "Minimum Government and Maximum Governance" has frequently struck the chord with the masses.

Ranking in Forbes

In 2015, the Forbes magazine has ranked Narendra Modi at ninth position as the most powerful person in the world. In 2014, Modi ranked 14th in the same list. The magazine said about Modi that the PM presided over 7.4% GDP growth in the first year in office and has also raised his profile as a global leader, especially during his visits with Xi Jinping and Barack Obama. It also added that managing 1.2 billion people requires more than shaking hands and now Modi must pass his party's reform agenda and keep the fractious opposition under his control. 

With so many brand images of Narendra Modi existing in a juxtaposed manner, it is to be seen which one suited his greater agenda and helped him in winning the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

Narendra Modi Facts and Information

Full Name	Narendra Damodardas Modi
Born	17 September 1950 at Vadnagar, Bombay State, India
Religion	Hinduism
Father	Damodardas Mulchand Modi
Mother	Heeraben
Brothers	Soma: A retired health officer. Now runs an old-age home in Ahmedabad. Prahlad: Runs a fair-price shop in Ahmedabad. He is also an activist fighting for the interests of fair-price shop owners. Pankaj Modi: Works in the information department, Gandhinagar.
Residence	Gandhinagar, Gujarat
Marriage	The issue of Modi's marriage became a minor controversy. It was later revealed that he had been betrothed as a child but had refused to acknowledge the union later on.
Teenage	As a teenager, Modi and his brother ran a tea stall.
Schooling	Did his schooling from Vadnagar. According to his teachers, he was an average student but had great interest in debates.
Education	Gujarat University
Occupation	Former Chief Minister of Gujarat. Current Prime Minister of India since 26 May 2014.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)	Modi's image is that of a staunch RSS supporter and Hindu nationalist. He has sparked controversy both within India and abroad.
Start of politics	After receiving RSS training in Nagpur, Modi started with taking charge of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the student wing of the RSS, in Gujarat.
Political Party	Bharatiya Janta Party
Constituency	Maninagar
Preceded by	Keshubhai Patel
Assumed office	10/07/01
General Secretary of the BJP	Soon thereafter, Modi was made the General Secretary of the BJP and started looking after the party's activities in Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. His work led to the party's victory in those elections.
National Secretary of the BJP	In 1998, Modi became the National Secretary of the BJP.
First Term as Chief Minister of Gujarat (2001-02)	Modi replaced Keshubhai Patel as the CM of Gujarat, as the latter had been struggling to contain the problems of corruption and poor administration. Given Modi's lack of experience at that time, L K Advani was not very confident about his chances. On 7 October 2001, Modi was appointed the Chief Minister of Gujarat and was assigned the responsibility to prepare the BJP for elections in December 2002. However, Modi did exceedingly well, focusing on privatization and minimum interference in business, an ideology that was squarely at odds with that of the RSS.
Gujarat violence (2002)	The Godhra riots broke out in the state following the apparent murder of 58 Hindu pilgrims on a train. About 1,000-2,000 Muslims were killed as communal violence broke out. In response, the Modi government imposed curfew in the state, issued orders of shoot-at-sight, and called in the Army. There were accusations that the violence was incited by the Modi government, although the Special Investigation Team (SIT) did not find any such strong evidence. However, on 7 May 2002, Raju Ramachandran, advisor to the Supreme Court for this case, held an opposite view and said that Modi can be prosecuted. The matter snowballed into a national-level debate, with opposition parties demanding Modi's resignation. He did do, and elections were held again.
Modi win in Elections of 2002	In the elections following immediately, Modi adopted a strong anti-Muslim stance and managed to win 127 out of the 182 seats.
Second Term as Chief Minister of Gujarat (2002-07)	During his second term, Modi shifted his focus entirely from Hindutva to aggressive economic expansion. He reigned in reactionary organizations like the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) as Gujarat saw its economy soar as investments poured in. An indicator of this was the Vibrant Gujarat Summit of 2007, which saw land leads worth Rs. 6,600 billion getting signed. However, he found himself getting increasingly alienated within the party as even Atal Bihari Vajpayee distanced himself from Modi. Criticism in media also grew stronger, with Modi being equated to the likes of Adolf Hitler.
Elections 2007-08	Despite the troubled waters, Modi managed to win the 2007 election, bagging 122 of the 182 seats.
Third Term as Chief Minister of Gujarat (2007-12)	During his third term, Modi worked to turn around the agriculture industry of Gujarat, launching a successful project to improve groundwater tables. During this time, about 1,13, 738 were constructed. As cotton production in the state soared, the economy started growing rapidly, recording an all-time high compounded annual rate of 10.97%.
Sadbhavana Mission and Fasts	In what is seen as a stratagem to appease the Muslims, Modi observed a number of fasts under his Sadbhavana Mission or Goodwill Mission, to improve communal ties and promote peace in the state. However, this had next to no impact.
Adoption of Social Media	Modi is arguably the most net-savvy political leader in India. He was quick to realize the potential of Twitter and Google Plus hangouts, and has been using these effectively.
Fourth Term as Chief Minister of Gujarat (2012-present)	The 2012 elections came as no surprise to anyone as the BJP swept the assembly once again, winning 115 out of the 182 seats.
Role in National Politics	The year 2013 proved extremely fruitful for Modi as he projected himself on the center stage. The BJP elected him as Chairman of the Central Election Campaign Committee of the BJP, amid growing clamor for Modi's name for the position of Prime Minister.
Prime Ministerial Candidate	In a decision that polarized the party, the BJP decided to cash in on Modi's growing popularity and selected him as the PM candidate for the 2014 polls. In September 2013, BJP announced Modi as the prime ministerial candidate for the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.
As the Prime Minister of India	BJP won the 2014 general elections with a landslide mandate. Narendra Modi took oath as the Prime Minister of India on 26th May 2014.
Awards and recognitions	Gujarat Ratna, conferred by Shri Poona Gujarati Bandhu Samaj e-Ratna award by the Computer Society of India Best Chief Minister, according to a 2006 India Todaysurvey Personality of the Year Award (Asia) for 2009 by the fDi magazine Featured on the cover of Timemagazine (Asia) in March 2012

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