Concepts in Hatha Yoga

Hatha Yoga is that branch of the Yogic Philosophy which deals with the health of the physical body and all that tends to keep it in its natural and normal state of health. It is a holistic yogic approach which includes moral disciplines as well as physical postures. It teaches a natural mode of living. It is also believed that Hatha Yoga is a stress reducing practice. Hatha Yoga is an important branch of philosophy, because it gives man a healthy body and a good instrument with which to work and a fitting temple for the Spirit. Hatha Yoga preaches a sane, natural, normal manner of living and life, which, if followed will benefit anyone. It keeps close to nature and returns to natural methods in preference to those which have grown up around us in our artificial habits of living. Hatha Yoga is devoted to this care of the physical body.

The word Hatha represents opposing energies. In fact it can be said that Hatha Yoga is an attempt to balance both mind and body with the help of physical postures or asanas. It includes purification processes, controlled breathing and calming and relaxing of the mind and the body.

The physical postures which are a part of Hatha Yoga include Hatha Yoga Asanas which gives poise, strength and balance to the physical as well as the mental existence of the body. It is said that as the body gains physical balance the mind gets prepared for the path of enlightenment. 

Relaxation in Hatha Yoga is basically avoiding the tense condition of the muscles in everyday life. With the practice of Hatha Yoga, a state of relaxation reacts upon the mind and the mind is able to regain its normal poise and repose. To know more read:

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Food in Mauryan Period, Food in Ancient India

Food in Mauryan Period largely depended on two seasons. While the winter season included rice and millet which formed a major part of the Maurya Empire, the summer season included wheat and barley. Along with this Kautilya mentions that there was a third crop that was cultivated between these two seasons. This included ‘Munga’ and ‘Masa’. With new crops it added to the stock of crops grown in Indian agriculture along with new food items. Overall this period too followed the same style of food habits which included cereals, pulses, dairy products, meat and beverages. 

ood in Mauryan Period differed from its predecessors in a very limited way when it introduced some more types of cereals which were popularly cultivated in ancient Mauryan Empire. In case of Rice along with the old varieties of rice namely Vrihi, Sali, Kodrava and Priyamgu, 2 new varieties of rice namely ‘Draka’ and ‘Varaka’ was introduced. Similarly 2 kinds of Barley was also introduce among which one was cultivated while the other was not cultivated but commonly used in preparing a mess, a gruel, groats and cakes. While Gruel was prepared with an inferior food grains; Groats were eaten with curds. Wheat occupied a more vital place among the cereals than in the previous period, it being invariably mentioned with barley. Besides the old pulses, pea was indeed popular. Soup was indeed popular and known a Patanjali. 

Food in Mauryan Period further included large variety of dairy products. Besides cow’s milk, milk of buffaloes, sheep and goat was also used. The Maurya Empire was equally habituated in taking meat products as Arthashastra lays down specific role of the Superintendent of Slaughter Houses. Along with meat, fresh fishes were taken as well as sweet of Maurya Empire included honey and product of Sugarcane which further included juice of sugarcane, guda, raw sugar, sugar-candy and refined sugar which were amiably popular.To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/52/food_mauryan_period.htm

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Indian Photographers, Indian Photography

A photographer is a person who creates photographs, a person who takes photographs, especially one who practices photography professionally. A photographer's work may be limited to the existent shooting of the camera. A photograph therefore, can be the work of a single person or of a team. 

Since the 18th century, events and landscapes in India had been in a perceptive manner observed and documented by both Indian and European artists in paintings, drawings, aquatints and lithographs. During the 19th century, India was at the cutting edge of photographic development. Many of Photographic exhibitions included a wide range of attractive images, many of them have never been seen before in public. 

With the immense growth of technology, the immense growth in the arena of fashion photography, nature photography, street photography, wedding photography etc., Indian Photographers have made a remarkable achievement in the field of photography. 

In the recent era, the photographers can be categorized as: Abstract photographer, Advertising photographer, Aerial photographer, Architectural photographer, Art photographer, Digital photography, Documentary photographer, Ethnographic photographer, Fashion photographer, Food photographer, Industrial photographer, Interiors photographer, Landscape photographer, Portraitist, Scientific/technical photographer, Sports photographer, Street photographer, Night photographer, Astrophotography, Black and White photographer, Pinhole photographer, Travel photographer, Urban photographer, War photographer etc. 

  Homai Vyarawalla - Homai started freelancing for the Illustrated Weekly of India and its editor Stanley Jepson used to give her weekly assignments. In the early days for a fragile woman like Homai taking photographs in field situations was not easy. Her large-format Speed Graphic camera had a composite wood, steel and aluminum chassis, which used to weigh more than six pounds.To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/9/indian_photographer.htm

Ananda Shankar Jayant , Indian Dancer

" Dance to me has always been the manifest expression of the unmanifest impression. Yes, dance is not some rarefied, exotic activity, far removed from the perceivable. It is that act, consciously performed, which is a manifestation of the inner self endeavoring to shatter through screens of illusion to touch 'reality'". The illustrious Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dancer, Ananda Shankar Jayant have said this. For her dance has always been 'just the reason to be; a way to touch eternity'. She has never looked into dance as a hobby or a pastime, or even a career. In the true guru-sishya parampara, she has been trained at the feet of Rukmini Devi Arundale at Kalakshetra. In her six years at Kalakshetra, she mastered in Bharatanatyam, Carnatic music, Veena, Choreography, Nattuvangam, Philosophy. Later on she has also learnt Kuchipudi from Pasumarthy Ramalinga Sastry.

Ananda Shankar Jayant is regarded as a 'top' grade artiste of Doordarshan. ICCR has empanelled her name in the list of 'established' artiste. She has also performed in major festivals in India and abroad. In major festivals, she has been invited to perform Kuchipudi such as Khajuraho, Bhagyachandra Dance Festival, Imphal etc.

Dr. Ananda is an everlasting artiste coalescing the skills of a performing artiste, teacher, choreographer and researcher, which is a rare combination. This combination has further been conjoined with the administrative skills of a successful bureaucrat. To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/11/ananda_shankar_jayant.htm

Effects of Hatha Yoga

The claims made on behalf of hatha-yoga are as extensive as they are remarkable. Techniques like Asanas, Kumbhaka and Mudras are often accompanied by the claims of immense effects such as "immortality" and even attainment of Moksha. All these claims seem to be exaggeration as to how can particular postures of body lead us to such seemingly grand achievements. The answer lies in the fact that, techniques alone do not stand much if not allied with the holistic experience of Hatha yoga. However, if such claims are considered with regard to each techniques proper place in the discipline as a whole i.e. as concerning the technique's effect in combination with a full range of asanas, Mudras, Kumbhaka and intense mental concentration then they become a little more feasible.

The display of effects of Hatha yoga has called in for several textual mentions, anecdotes and folklore. These effects are evident in several 'special powers', acquired by the yogi through prolonged and assiduous practice, and commonly termed siddhis. In yogic context the term Siddhi has two meanings. Firstly it denotes the 'absolute success' or 'perfection' achieved by the yogi who has realized his or her true identity as Brahman. Secondly it refers to the sense of a more physical, but comparatively minor 'accomplishment' or 'special power' acquired on the way to ultimate success. Such accomplishments were more visible, but they only indicated that the Sadhaka is moving in the right direction, rather than being the goals themselves.  

According to the Yoga-Sutra, Siddhis attain the sustained practice of sanyama, which consists in the combined inner disciplines of Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi. This is also defind in terms of vibhuti pada. Vibhuti meaning 'signal blessing', 'gift' or 'power' and thus is virtual synonym of siddhi. Much of the Vibhuti-pada is devoted to outlining the numerous siddhis accrued by one's performing Sanyama on specific objects. Eight Siddhis are held to be most important amongst all. To know more read:

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Shrikhand, Indian Dessert

Shrikhand is a very common yogurt based Indian custard. It is mostly popular in Maharashtra and Gujarat. In this recipe, plain yogurt is transformed into a mouth watering delicacy. It comes in various flavours like strawberry shrikhand, mango shrikhand etc. The plain as well as the flavoured recipe requires very few ingredients like curd, sugar, milk and cardamom powder. It is very easy to make and can be prepared at home. It can also be purchased from various food stores.

Ingredients of Plain Shrikhand

·  1 kg thick curd

·  3/4 cup powdered sugar

·  A few strands saffron

·  1 tablespoon warm milk

·  2 teaspoons cardamom powder (elaichi)

For Garnishing
Slivers of pistachios and almonds

Method of Preparing Plain Shrikhand

·  Hang the curds in a muslin cloth in a cool place for approximately 3 hours until all the liquid (whey) has drained off.

·  Rub the saffron into the warm milk until it dissolves. Mix together the hung curds, sugar, saffron mixture and cardamom in a bowl and churn using a hand blender.

·  Place in the refrigerator.

·  Serve cold garnished with slivers of pistachios and almonds.

Ingredients of Strawberry Shrikhand

·  1/2kg curds

·  300gms sugar

·  10 to 12 crushed strawberries

·  2 to 3 drops strawberry essence

·  1/2 tbsp almond crushed

Method of Preparing Strawberry Shrikhand

·  Hang curd in a clean muslin cloth overnight (6-7 hours).

·  Take into a bowl, add sugar and mix.

·  Keep aside for 25-30 minutes till the sugar is fully dissolved.

·  Beat well till sugar is fully dissolved into curd.

·  Pass through a big holed strong strainer, pressing with hand or spatula.

·  Add crushed strawberries and essence. Mix well.

·  Empty into a glass serving bowl and top with almonds.

·  Chill for 1-2 hours.

·  Serve.

To know more read:

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Ancient Indian Cities

Ancient Indian Cities Ancient Indian Cities reveal facts about the different civilisations of the country. The mode of daily life, customs, cultures, celebrations, festivals, religious observances, caste system, sports activities, education and position of women, architecture or any other possible facet of the past can be studied through the ancient Indian cities. Indeed, it can also be comprehended that most of the contemporary Indian cultural refinement has been heavily borrowed and inspired form these ancient Indian cities. The Indus valley Civilisation, with their huge cultural wonders, was primarily based upon the cities of Harappa and Mohenjodaro. Ancient cities in India are known for their distinctive cultural ethos, with the populace known to have been much civilized and for their well structured societies.

Ancient cities of India possess well-planned streets, art of pottery, drainage ditches, bulky granaries and large bath sources for ritual cleansing. Constructed on a raised platform, most of the major buildings were made from brick. There existed small, two-room structures to enormous two-storied houses with courtyards. The history of ancient cities and civilisations in India is of the ages or eras in the evolution of Indian history generally, commencing from pre-historic era to the colonial era of modern India. The history of ancient civilisation of India can be traced back to the Bronze Age, beginning from 3300 to 1300 BCE, which had disseminated and prospered in the north western part of Indian subcontinent. 

Ancient Indian cities have been described to belong to that bunch, which had existed before the arrival of Islam into India, precisely prior to the 8th century. Ancient Indian cities bearing depict and represent the vast and diversified culture of India. From archaeological and repeated historical accounts, it can be comprehended that there did exist an astounding number of ancient cities, each bearing its distinctive quality. The most intriguing fact about these ancient cities is that they have remained the same with slight dash of modernism.To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/4/ancient_indian_cities.htm

Double Reed Musical Instruments

Double Reed Musical Instruments have been popular in the world of music since a long time. These are a kind of wind instruments having two reeds, as the name suggests. In these instruments sound is produced when two pieces of canes vibrate against each other. A range of musical instruments are found in the family of double reed musical instruments.

Kuzhal
Kuzhal is a traditional instrument of South India, especially Kerala. It resembles a Shehnai and produces a penetrating and shrill sound. The instrument comprises of wooden pipe having a conical bore with a brass bell attached to the end. Kuzhal is usually played by males. While playing the instruments, the small holes of the instrument are closed with both hands to produce different melodies. Previously, Kuzhal was used along with Chenda in the musical gatherings. Kuzhal Pattu is the name given to the solo concert which is accompanied by this instrument. 

Nadaswaram
Nadaswaram is considered as the loudest non brass acoustic instrument of the world. It is one of the most popular Double Reed Musical Instrument of Tamil Nadu. It is a wind instrument having stark similarity with Shehnai. Nadaswaram is considered as very auspicious in south India and is thus played in temples and weddings. It is usually played in pairs along with Thavil, a kind of drum. Along the body of this instrument, holes are made which are used to modify the musical notes. Nadaswaram produces a strong and intense sound, a reason for which it is considered as an outdoor instrument and played in open air concerts. 

Bagpipes
Bagpipes are another popular instruments belonging to the family of Double Reed Musical Instruments. The emergence of this instrument can be traced from about 16th or 17th century. It consists of an air reservoir, as a bag with two enclosed reeds. Air is supplied in the bag by blowing through the blowpipe. Continuous flow of player enables the instrument to produce continuous sound. An open ended melody pipe, known as chanter, is used to create beautiful melodies. Music of Bagpipes accompanies the dances very well. To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/67/double_reed_musical_instruments.htm

Documentary Photography in India, Indian Photography

Documentary photography pursues a particular topic or story in-depth over time. Documentary photography is a type of professional photojournalism. Documentary photography is more about capturing the truth in the social scenario around us. It is also referred to as Candid photography as the moments captured are true and real. Documentary photography, to a certain extent, captures the real essence of the photographers mind. They depict a certain perspective of the mind of the photographer. These photographs are usually for exhibition in an art gallery or other public forum. Sometimes an organization or company will commission documentary photography of its activities, but the pictures will only be for its private archives. 

The challenge for a documentary photographer is to make pictures of sensitive scenes and moments without changing them by the presence of a camera. People should not pose for the camera or else it won’t be real. The resulting pictures - the subjects facing the camera and seen from "top to toe" are a vivid historical documentary photography archive, and have established the posed "straight up" as a valid style of documentary picture-making.

Career in Documentary Photography 

The scenes of Indian Photography seem to be remarkably promising. It has innumerable branches to choose from along with the different courses and degrees for getting the skills. Photography can be treated both as an occupation and an art form. The economic returns are also not very reasonable in the beginning but there are many successful photographers in today. There are some diploma and certificate courses which can pursue to include technical specialisation. A documentary photographer can follow these courses along with the college. After the completion of the course, a photographer can get the job opportunity in various media sectors like - Add media, News media, Documentary firms, Magazines, Event management organizations, Theatre, Movies etc. To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/5/documentary_photography.htm

Indian classical instrumentalists include the various skilled practitioners of music who are admired for their timeless musical renditions through several kinds of musical instruments like 'rudra veena', 'surbahar', 'sitar', 'sarod', 'sarangi', 'flute', 'shehnai' and 'santoor'. The noted fact that these instruments emote a poignant and heart-wrenching effect from the listener further heightens the effect of classicism on Indian music. 

Legendary and sufficiently successful in their extensive career, the Indian classical instrumentalists have been taking India to lofty heights since pre-independence times. It is always believed and a much-discussed fact in India that the classical instrumentalists have been born with the magic touch, whenever they barely touch their respective instruments it sings out as if it has been enchanted. Perhaps the statement is true to some extent, because, each separate musical soiree has turned out even better for the Indian classical instrumentalists. The strum of the string from stringed instruments, or the frequency of wind from winged instruments, readily reaches every nook of the place from where it is being performed. 

Striving hard to reach the respectable position that they have presently gained, the journey was never just a bed of roses for the Indian classical instrumentalists. Some rising from almost pauperism and some fleeing away from home against their guardian's wishes, the instrumentalists possessed that strong force of determination and will-power to drive forth to success. Witnessing light at the end of the tunnel, the present Indian generation perhaps grossly misses the luminaries that have passed away and can be heard no more. Such is the capability of the instrumentalists that even unheard melodies become sweeter in their fingers and lips. The achievers in the extensive and appreciated list include: Ustad Zia Mohiuddin Dagar, Ustad Asad Ali Khan, Ustad Imrat Khan, Pt. Nikhil Banerjee, Ustad Vilayat Khan, Ustad Allauddin Khan, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Ustad Bundu Khan, Pt. Ram Narayan, Pt. Pannalal Ghosh, Ustad Bismillah Khan, Pt. Shiv Kumar Sharma, Rahul Sharma and Pt. Ravi Shankar. To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/38/indian_classical_instrumentalists.htm

Epic Match of Polo in India

One of the epic matches of polo in India was the match between two titans; Patiala and Jodhpur in 1922. The game marked the downfall of the Patiala Team and rise of the Jodhpur team. The team from Jodhpur reined the polo field for the next three decades. The epic match is described as one of the crucial match to have been played in India during the rule of the princely state. An analysis of the gradual evolution of polo as a tactical game up to this period will show that improvements in the game mainly were in the form of development of what already existed. This was achieved primarily by an increased attention to details and extending the game to its natural conclusion, especially as the keen edge of competition, spurred on by Regimental or National honour was increasingly applied to the sport. Teams came to the top as leaders arose who had the necessary skills in the game to guide and shape the lines of play as well as the capacity for leadership to enforce their view on others. However, the lessons taught by one team were soon forgotten, having to be re-learnt to a great extent by the next due to a failure by the players in general, to grasp the essentials. 

 Around 1, 50,000 spectators gathered around the field to witness the match. Many dignitaries gathered to watch the match as well which included future king of England, the Viceroy, some 50 Maharajas and princes, dozens of generals and high government officials and all the ladies dressed as if they were going to be received a court. The atmosphere was perfect for a high voltage match.To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/56/epic_match_polo_india.htm

Metta Bhavana

In Buddhist meditation, 'Metta' is the connotation of 'loving kindness' and 'bhavana' entails 'cultivation'. Metta Bhavana is an ancient Buddhist meditation that leads to the development of unconditional loving kindness and friendliness. 

Metta Bhavana in Buddhism is a type of meditation that balances the insight meditations that purifies the mind and makes insights into a more profound reality. Buddhism says that the cultivation of benevolence must begin with oneself. Thus the Metta bhavana begins with the thought: "May I be free from enmity; may I be free from ill-will; may I be rid of suffering; may I be happy." There is a profound psychological truth in this, for the one who does not hate or despise himself, consciously or unconsciously can feel true loving-kindness for others. Metta, indeed, can be developed only if one gives to it boundlessly without discriminating and without expectation of something in return. It should be free of selfishness or attachment. The object of Metta meditation should be infinite beings. This meditation uses the techniques to develop good qualities that already exist in human minds and it further introduces new wholesome qualities.

There are as many different ways of practicing Metta Bhavana as there are levels of intensity in the practice. The development of concentration through the systematic practice of Metta Bhavana acts as beneficial in counteracting the Five Mental Hindrances of the meditator including sensuality, mental inertia, restlessness and skeptical doubt. The achievement of full concentration of the meditator brings five absorption factors that are applied thought, sustained thought, followed by rapture, ease-of-mind and one-pointedness or unification of mind. The benefit of achieving deep concentration with this positive mind set is that it will tend to imprint the new positive conditioning while overriding the old negative patterns. In this way, old negative habits are changed, thereby, freeing one to form new, positive ways of relating. To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/41/metta_bhavana.htm

Shila Mehta, Indian Dancer

Shila Mehta has been regarded as the noted Kathak dancer as well as an illustrious Choreographer. "Indian Council of cultural relations" (ICCR) has empanelled her acknowledging her contribution in the field of Kathak Dance. She has bagged the honor of performing in many major notable festivals of India and abroad. Many workshops have been conducted by her in and around India and abroad. Many times even today Shila Mehta has been called for her lecture demonstration. For this purposes she has visited countries like USA, UK, Middle East countries, Germany, Ireland and Oman etc.

Shila Mehta has got her training under the expert tutelage of advocators of Kathak dancers namely Nrityacharya Shri Prahalad Das, Pt. Vijai Shankar, Pt. Birju Maharaj, Pt. Suresh Talwalkar, Shri Chitresh Das, Smt. Kumudini Lakhia, Smt. Kalanidhi Narayana. She has been consecrated with the blessings of these noted dancers. They spearheaded Shila Mehta and groomed as a dancer as well as the performing artist. On many occasions she has been acknowledged for her outstanding performances that eventually led to the material recognitions.

Shila Mehta has established her performing art centre named, 'Nupur Zankar Academy of Performing Arts and Research Centre'. She acts as the founder and artistic director of the centre. The centre is established at Mumbai. In that centre, Kathak Dance, folk Dance, Vocal Music, Instrumental Music and Yoga are taught. There are able gurus to conduct the training session. Shila Mehta herself is a genius in directing Dance Ballets. With her skillfulness she has presented folk dances in the combined styles of traditional and modern aspects.  To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/12/shila_mehta_indian_dancer.htm

Instruments Used in Indian Classical Music

Most of the instruments used in Indian Classical Music were invented during mid 19th century. A variety of instruments accompany the Indian classical music. Indian classical music is one of the most ancient traditions of the country. Over years many instruments have developed and have also gone numerous modifications. With the advent of various musical instruments, music concerts and recordings have become more popular and charming. 

Veena 
Veena is a category of plucked string instruments. The strings, hollow neck, bridge design and gourd resonating chamber creates enchanting melodies in Veena. Teak wood or tun wood is used to make the gourds and neck of the Veena whereas the bridges of the instrument are composed of ebony, deer horn or occasionally of camel bone. Nowadays synthetic materials are also used. Mention of Veena in the ancient texts confirms its existence since ages. It has also undergone many changes and modifications over years. In ancient times, the historians have the proof of existence of Veena, when they found the coins during the period of Samudragupta. 

Sarod 
Sarod is another stringed instrument of India and forms an important part of Indian classical music. Sitar produces a deep and introspective sound that has the capability to stir the emotions of the audiences. Sarod is derived from an ancient musical instrument known as Afghan rubab, of Afghanistan. Amjad Ali Khan and Allauddin Khan are considered as the epitome of Sarod in India. Playing of Sarod requires specific fingering techniques in which strings are pressed hard against the fingerboard.

To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/67/instruments_used_indian_claassical_music.htm

Beaches of Gujarat

Beaches of Gujarat lie along the western coast of India and stretches through the long and beautiful coastline. Some of the finest beaches of the country are nestled in the state of Gujarat which flaunts their sparkling blue waters, lovely climate and swaying palm trees.

Spending weekend holidays and the long holidays in the tranquility of beaches of Gujarat is immensely refreshing. In addition to sightseeing and relishing the beauties of nature, many other intriguing activities can also be enjoyed here including diverse water sports. 

The shore temples, forts and beach resorts are the added attractions of these beaches. The state of Gujarat is endowed with rich natural resources and the beaches of Gujarat serve as absolute paradise for the nature lovers and the weekenders.

Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach, Junagadh District 
Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach is one of the exquisite beaches of Gujarat. The white and firm beach is excellent for walks. It is also frequently visited by swimmers. The shallow waters and the beautiful beach invite numerous visitors for a rejuvenating time and the kids building sand castles create a delightful view. There are several water sports can be enjoyed here such as speed boat trips, para sailing, surfing, skiing, water scooters etc.

Dwaraka Beach, Jamnagar District 
Dwaraka Beach is not only a popular pilgrimage site but also serves as a preferred destination for beach holiday. The vast expanses of fine sand are mostly crowded with pilgrims; however certain secluded spots can also be located. Numerous birds flock along the coast. It also has a small island where a few temples stand. The beach is also inhabited by sea urchins, star fish, octopus, sea turtles and other aquatic life.  To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/71/beaches_gujarat.htm

Caranzalem Beach, Goa

Caranzalem beach, situated near Panjim in Goa, is known for its spectacular stretch of white sand and the crystal clear water of the sea. The beach extends to a length of about 3.5 kilometres. Caranzalem beach is very clean and well maintained which makes it even more inviting. The luring sea waves and the enchanting serenity make it an excellent tourist spot, especially for the adventure lovers. Sunset at the beach charms the beholders. 

Attractions of Caranzalem Beach 
Caranzalem beach boasts an undercurrent free shore and is thus regarded as safe for swimming in the wide open sea. Caranzalem beach is a popular site for cherishing water sports as the place offers numerous water scooters and other sporting facilities. Thus the beach attracts sports enthusiasts greatly who can experience para surfing, water surfing and many other intriguing activities. Early mornings at the beach present delightful sights of the local fishermen pulling in their nets to harvest their morning catch on the beach. In fact tourists can also participate in the pulling of the nets which is a unique experience to have. 

Strolling on Caranzalem beach in the evenings is very pleasant. It is also frequented by kids for playing football. Food lovers find the place ideal for pampering their taste buds with lip smacking traditional Goan cuisine served at local restaurants. The beach is visited by a number of tourists from India as well as abroad. Caranzalem beach also features well manicured grass lawns in the surrounding areas, a unique feature among the beaches of Goa, which provides a great relief under the sun. To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/71/caranzalem_beach.htm

Coins of Tripura Kings

Tripura was an independent Hindu kingdom. It is a hilly tract and a strip of fertile plains east of Bengal. It came into prominance soon after muslim rulers of Bengal lost their military strength. Tripura kings managed to acquire large tracts of land. Finally in 1733, powerful Mughal army defeated Tripura Maharaja (king) and occupied fertile plains leaving him all hilly tracts. But this region remained powerfully a Hindu oriented land. After British took control of Bengal, in 1871, a agent was appointed to help Maharaja in administration. Thus this hill kingdom managed to remain independent till mid 20th century and finally in 1947 merged as one of the state in Indian republic. 

All Tripura coins are in the Bengali script but the language used is Sanskrit. Almost all of the coins issued by Tripura kingdom have names of their kings together with their queens. In 1464 AD, a young prince, Ratna Manikya with help of Rukn-ud-din Barbak Shah, a sultan of Bengal managed to gain full control over Tripura. He issued first coins of Tripura with fixed date of Saka era 1386 (1464 AD) which are certainly far superior to neighboring Bengal coinage. Even though Ratna Manikya minted coins in the identical weight standard of Bengal/ Mughal, they were entirely Hindu in their design and inspiration and definitely far better artistic specimen as compared to contemporary Bengal or Mughal coinage. Just like the Assam coins, most of the Tripura coins also had a carving of the lion, (vahana of goddess Durga) on obverse and legends on reverse in Bengali script. But the most striking feature of Ratna Manikya's coinage is the name of his Queen, Laksmi Mahadevi, on the coin. This became a permanent practice among all successive kings. In the whole numismatic history of this subcontinent there are only five instances where the Queen's name is inscribed on the coin along with the King. The reason behind this is mostly the predominance of the Queen at that particular phase of time. But in the case of Ratna Manikya there is no evidence of the Queen exerting special power. Neither the numismatists nor the social scientists could explain this unusual phenomenon. To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/39/coins_tripura_kings.htm