Indiology

Credit: Cottage9 The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, also known as Thiruvaranga Tirupati, is a prestigious Vaishnav temple devoted to Ranganatha, the reclining form of the Hindu deity, the Lord Vishnu. Situated on the Srirangam island between the Cauvery and Kollidam rivers in Srirangam , Tiruchirapalli district, Tamil Nadu. It's not just a temple but a temple town with a unique Sapta-Prakaram formation, consisting of seven concentric rectangular enclosures formed by rampart walls around the sanctum sanctorum. The Temple's origins possibly date back to the Sangam period , around the 1st century CE. However, as it stands today, the temple represents an amalgamation of architectural styles and building activities from various royal dynasties who revered and contributed to its magnificence. The temple's construction can be traced back to the early Chola dynasty rulers, particularly during the 1st century CE (Sangam Period). The early Cholas, ruling from Uraiyoor, located to the...

The upcoming web series   “Heeramandi”   by celebrated   director Sanjay Leela Bhansali  explores the historical context of   Lahore’s renowned red-light district.   Though plot details are kept under wraps, viewers can anticipate a narrative that draws from the rich tapestry of history, culture, and societal complexities of the period. Beyond the Red Lights: Life in Heeramandi The history of Heeramandi can be traced back to the  Mughal era,  a time when Lahore was the capital of the empire. During this period, the city thrived as a centre of trade, culture, and intellectual exchange.  Heeramandi also known as Shahi Mohalla  emerged as a prominent district where  courtesans, known as  tawaifs   or nautch girls, flourished. The courtesans of Heeramandi were highly skilled in various  performing arts, including dance, music, poetry, and conversation.  They entertained the nobility, merchants, and intellectuals with...

Paradip: India's Leading Cargo Hub Credit: Daily Shipping Times  A significant milestone has been reached in India's maritime sector as Paradip Port in Odisha has surpassed Deendayal Port Authority in Gujarat to become the country’s largest major port in terms of cargo volumes during the fiscal year 2023-24 . This achievement highlights the impressive growth and strategic importance of Paradip Port in supporting trade and commerce. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways recently reported that Paradip Port has displayed outstanding performance by managing an unprecedented volume of cargo, solidifying its status as a prominent maritime hub in the area. With a handling capacity exceeding 150 million tonnes, Paradip Port has experienced a consistent rise in cargo throughput , surpassing its competitors and establishing new standards in port operations. The rise of Paradip Port as the leading port facility in the country can be attributed to a variety of factors. One key f...

  Bhaskara II Credit: ishot Introduction Bhaskara II, also known as Bhaskaracharya, was a renowned Indian mathematician and astronomer who flourished in the 12th century. He revolutionized various branches of mathematics, such as algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, through his groundbreaking contributions. Bhaskara II was inspired by his father, Mahesvara, a well-known mathematician and astronomer, to pursue a passion for the subject. He initially received his education from his father and later studied at the prestigious Ujjain University , known for its excellence in mathematical education.  Bhaskara II is the only ancient mathematician honoured with a dedicated monument. In 1817, Colebrooke became the first European to translate Bhaskara II's mathematical classics into English. Bhaskara II oversaw a cosmic observatory in Ujjain, the primary mathematical hub in ancient India. His works significantly advanced the mathematical and astronomical knowledge of the 12th century...

Unraveling the Marvels of Hampi     Introduction  Hampi, located in the state of Karnataka, India, was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire during the 14th century . The city thrived as a centre of art, culture, and architecture, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable temples that stand as testaments to its glorious past. The Hampi temple architecture is renowned for its grandeur, intricate carvings, and unique blend of Dravidian and Indo-Islamic styles. About Vijayanagar empire   The Vijayanagar Empire, also known as the Karnata Kingdom , was established in 1336 CE on the southern banks of the Tungabhadra River in present-day Karnataka, India.  The empire flourished under the rule of brothers Harihara and Bukka of the Sangama Dynasty, both of Kuruba ancestry. The city of Hampi, nestled near the Deccan Plateau in South India, thrived as the capital of this powerful empire. Harihara and Bukka's leadership and past service under Hoysala King Vira Ballala...

Jamnagar: Gateway to Gujarat's Rich Cultural Tapestry Pratap Vilas Palace Credit: Gujaratexpert  INTRODUCTION  In 1540, Jam Raval founded Jamnagar as the capital of the Princely State of Nawanagar around Ranmal Lake. Maharaja Ranjitsinhji renovated the city in the 1920s, leading to the city being commonly referred to as Jamnagar or “the city of Jams".  'Jam' means 'king', reflecting the Jadeja Rajput rulers' lineage believed to be from Krishna’s Yadava clan. Legend says Krishna resettled the Yadavas from Mathura to Dwarka, now in Jamnagar district. HISTORY Jamnagar has a rich history that dates back over 444 years. It was established by Shri Jam Raval , a descendant of Jam Halla and one of the heirs of Lord Krishna. The city has faced various challenges over the centuries, from the Mughals to the modern era. Shri Jam Ranjitsinhji played a crucial role in revitalizing Jamnagar from 1909 to 1932, overseeing the development of wide roads, markets, gardens, ...

Bhojshala Temple: A Golden Age of Paramara Dynasty  Dhar Temple Pillar  Credit: Wikipedia  INTRODUCTION  Raja Bhoja , a prominent ruler of the Paramara dynasty from 1000 to 1055 A.D ., was celebrated for his support of education. He established a college in Dhar, known as Bhojshala, where students from various regions gathered to expand their knowledge. The remnants of Bhojshala, now referred to as the temple of Saraswati, can still be observed in the well-known Kamal Maulana Mosque.    Subsequently, the mosque was converted by the Muslim rulers of Dhara. History of the Paramara Dynasty The Paramaras governed a vast region in and around Malwa for four centuries, spanning from the 9th to the 13th centuries . The most renowned rulers of this dynasty were Vakpati Munja and Bhojadeva. Munja was celebrated for his military prowess, poetic talent, and patronage of arts and literature.  His court attracted renowned poets such as Dhananjaya, Halayudha, Dhani...