travel – GOPS Creativ

GOPS CREATIV :: REDISCOVERING MY LOST PASSIONS

Jan 14

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel 4 comments tags: blog, civilization, dolmen, gopan g nair, gops, gops creativ, gops.in, gops.org, hirebenakal, hirebenkal, history, india, indus, kanthalloor, kerala, marayoor, muniyara, munnar, ruin, valley

PERISHING MUNIYARA DOLMENS OF MARAYOOR, MUNNAR

The early human settlements in India, particularly at Mehrgarh (modern day Balochistan), signify one of the earliest known agricultural societies in the region. The Neolithic period, beginning around 7000 BCE, laid the foundation for the transition from nomadic lifestyles to settled farming communities. This shift not only fostered the growth of agriculture but also led to the development of trade, pottery, and weaving, which were pivotal in shaping the social and economic structures of these early societies. As the Indus Valley Civilization emerged around 2500 BCE, with prominent urban centers like Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, it showcased advanced urban planning, sophisticated drainage systems, and standardized weights and measures. The civilization’s decline around 1500 BCE is still a subject of debate among historians, with theories ranging from climatic changes and natural disasters to socio-economic factors leading to the migration of its people. The Indus Valley civilization ceased to exist before the world entered Iron Age (1000 BCE). However, several groups of inhabitants had already migrated away from the region further eastwards and down south to explore the possibilities for survival. With the onset of the Vedic period around 1500 BCE, following the Indo-Aryan migrations, the cultural fabric of India began to diversify. […]

Sep 28

by GOPAN NAIR in Life in this India, travel, Varanasi 4 comments tags: baba, baba shiv das, benaras, das, gopan g nair, gops, gops.org, india, italy, kashi, sadhu, shiv, shiva, varanasi

A HINDU MONK FROM ITALY

In the winter of 2014, I found myself wandering the ghats of Kashi in Varanasi, searching for captivating photo-stories. It was during one of these strolls that I encountered Baba Shiv Das, basking in the warmth of the rising sun with a cup of tea in one hand and a cigarette in the other. The photographer in me couldn’t resist capturing a few candid shots, though I felt a twinge of guilt about invading his privacy. To my surprise, Baba Shiv Das turned his head, fixed me with an intense gaze, and beckoned with his index finger, saying, “Hey! Come here.” Despite my initial apprehension due to past encounters with arrogant sadhus, I decided to approach him. To my delight, Baba Shiv Das was kind, peaceful, and soft-spoken. He gently advised me that photographing people without their knowledge was inappropriate. When I apologized, he graciously granted me permission to take some close-up shots. Captivated by his charming blue eyes, which glittered like pearls through my viewfinder, I mentioned that the river Ganga seemed to flow through his eyes. He burst into laughter, and I quickly captured that moment on film as well. After the photo shoot and a brief conversation, […]

Mar 09

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel 14 comments tags: Abhaneri, Baori, Chand, chand baori, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, india, largest, photography, photos, pond, Rajasthan, step, stepwell, tourism, water, well

CHAND BAORI OF ABHANERI (WORLD’S LARGEST STEP WELL)

Water holds a sacred place in Indian culture, being revered as one of the ‘Panch Bhootas’ (Five elements of life) since ancient times. It is believed that life began in water, and the future progress will be centered around it. The foresight of great Indian rulers ensured the survival of the desert state of Rajasthan in the face of nature’s challenges. In the little-known town of Abhaneri near Jaipur, India, one can find the World’s largest step-well. Originally known as Abha Nagari (The City of Brightness), it was established by King Raja Chand of the Nikumbha Dynasty between the 8th and 9th centuries AD. Ancient Hindu wisdom emphasized the interconnectedness of worship places and nature as a means of protecting the environment. This is demonstrated by the presence of ancient temples in India, often accompanied by functioning wells or ponds. King Chand’s legacy lives on in the form of the magnificent Baori, (step-well or step-pond, बावड़ी or बावली) built in Abhaneri around 825 AD. This architectural marvel, Chand Baori (Chand bawadi in local tongue) measuring 35 meters on each side, 19.5 meters deep, and adorned with 3500 steps in intricate geometric patterns, continues to captivate visitors from all corners of […]

Feb 07

MOODS OF THE MONKEY KINGDOM

Check out these breathtaking snapshots capturing the rich essence of enchanting Hampi. As the title suggests, Hampi is a place that stirs up a range of emotions. It’s a paradise for wanderers, a treat for history buffs, and a goldmine for photography enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the allure!

Dec 05

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel 19 comments tags: ancient, anegondi, anegundi, art, birth, blog, boulder, bukka, burial, cave, chamber, dolmen, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, Gudda, hampi, hire benekal, hirebenekal, hirebenkal, india, karnataka, Mane, Moryar, Onake Kindi, paintings, rock, rock art, ruins, tungabhadra

HIRE BENAKAL : VALLEY OF THE DEAD !

We had the chance to explore the remnants of a once great civilization in Hampi. Together, we ventured back in time to experience the blend of myth and history in Anegundi. We also delved into the traces of early human settlements in the area and examined the primitive cave paintings at Onake Kindi. Now, let’s journey even further into the past to the enigmatic ‘valley of the dead’, where the history of ancient human habitation peacefully resides. Hire Benakal (also known as Hirebenakal or Hirebenkal ಹಿರೇಬೆಣಕಲ್) is a serene village adjacent to Anegundi, located approximately 50 km from Hampi. This impressive megalithic burial site in Karnataka, India, is believed to be around 3000 years old and is recognized as one of the largest necropolises in the region. Referred to as ‘Elu Guddagalu’ in the Kannada language, which translates to ‘Seven hillocks’, the site comprises approximately 400 megalithic structures (dolmens) that were constructed between 800 BCE to 200 BCE, spanning the period from Neolithic to the Iron Age. The initial documentation of this site dates back to 1835 during the British rule, when Philip Meadows Taylor’s findings were published in the Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society. While the Archaeology Survey […]

Sep 09

by GOPAN NAIR in travel, Wonders of Nature 4 comments tags: agumbe, bangalore, chikmagalur, forest, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, hills, karnataka, king cobra, Kundadry, rain, rain forest, research, sringeri, temple, trek, trip, udupi, village, Vishveshwarayya

ANOTHER RAINY DAY IN AGUMBE

The earthy aroma that wafts into the air when rain kisses the dry soil after a prolonged dry spell, known as ‘petrichor,’ holds a captivating allure. This delightful fragrance, stemming from the Greek words ‘Petra’ (stone) and ‘Ichor’ (the fluid flowing through the veins of Gods), is deeply intertwined with our ancestral reverence for rain as a life-giving force. Scientifically, this phenomenon occurs as raindrops stir the earth’s pores, releasing minuscule bubbles of plant oils, bacteria, and ozone into the atmosphere. While excessive ozone can pose risks to human health, the amount released during this enchanting event is negligible, allowing us to relish the revitalizing essence of petrichor without concern. I believe we’re straying from our main topic. Let’s shift our focus to places where rain is a daily occurrence. In the northeastern part of India, there’s ‘Cherrapunji’, which was previously known as the wettest place on Earth and still holds the Guinness Book record for the highest recorded rainfall in a location. Nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats, the lesser-known gem of ‘Agumbe’ has earned the title of the ‘Cherrapunji of South India’ owing to its intimate relationship with rainfall. The lush tropical rainforest of Agumbe is […]

Oct 22

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel 4 comments tags: ajanta, architecture, aurangabad, blog, buddha, buddhism, buddhist, caves, cut, ellora, gop.org, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, heritage, hindu, hinduism, india, jain, jaina, Kailasa, Kailasanatha, Kailasha, monastery, mural, photography, river, rock, site, temple, Temples, tourism, USESCO, WORLD

ENCHANTING ELLORA

The Ellora Cave Complex, located 29 kilometers North-West of Aurangabad, a prominent city situated 300 kilometers away from Mumbai in India, is a fascinating historical site. Originally known as Elapura, the complex consists of temples and monasteries dedicated to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, dating back to between 600-1000 AD. Carved out of volcanic basalt rock, this extraordinary group of caves showcases the rich religious and cultural history of the region. Although a hundred caves have been discovered, only 34 are currently accessible to the public, offering a glimpse into the ancient heritage of the area. Long ago, the Deccan plateau was shaped by ancient volcanic activity, as molten lava cooled and solidified into layers of basaltic rock. Evidence of early human settlements dating back thousands of years has been discovered in this region, indicating its historical significance. Ellora’s strategic location near a prominent trade route, dating back to the Satavahana dynasty (271 BC to 30 BC), likely contributed to its continual inhabitation and preservation unlike the nearby Ajanta caves. While the exact construction period remains unknown, it is believed that the remarkable architecture of Ellora was a legacy of King Krishna#1 of the Rashtrakuta dynasty (760 AD). Detailed descriptions of […]

Oct 01

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel 10 comments tags: ajanta, architecture, aurangabad, blog, buddha, buddhist, caves, cut, gop.org, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, heritage, india, monastery, mural, photography, river, rock, site, Temples, tourism, USESCO, waghora, WORLD

AJANTA CAVES : WHEN ROCKS TELL STORIES

Located approximately 450 kilometers away from the vibrant city of Mumbai, ‘Ajanta’ stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of ancient Indian art, architecture, culture, and religion. These magnificent cave temples showcase the seamless integration of various elements that define the splendour of India’s heritage. Ajanta is home to a remarkable collection of 29 Buddhist monasteries and sanctuaries, representing the Theravada and Mahayana Buddhist traditions. These stunning architectural marvels date back to the period spanning from the 2nd century BC to the 6th century AD. Despite being deserted and concealed for millennia, a group of British soldiers stumbled upon this extraordinary site in 1819, bringing it back into the light after years of obscurity. Located approximately 104 kilometers away from the vibrant city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, the river Waghora gracefully cascades down in a series of seven steps, giving rise to a tranquil pool known as Saptakund. As it continues its journey, the river flows through a narrow, winding gorge nestled beside a striking, horse-shoe shaped rock. The caves, a testament to incredible craftsmanship and precision, are meticulously carved into the sheer vertical face of this rock. Evident from the rock’s formation and geological characteristics, it is believed […]

Jun 01

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel 10 comments tags: achyutharaya, ancient, anegondi, anegundi, Anjanadri, Bali, birth, blog, boulder, bukka, cave, dynasty, Gagan Mahal, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, hakka, hampi, Hanuman, Hazararama, hill, india, karnataka, Kishkinda, Kishkindha, krishnadevaraya, mathanga, Onake Kindi, paintings, Pampa Sarovar, photography, place, Ramayana, Rishimuka, ruins, Shabari, Sugreeva, Sugriva, temple, tungabhadra, Vali, Vali Quila, Vijayanagara, vittala

THE RIVER AND BEYOND… ANEGUNDI

Let’s take a journey back in time as we explore the history spanning over 5000 years. Our story begins with the river Pampa (Tungabhadra), the lifeblood of a great civilization that once thrived in the southern state of Karnataka in India. Anegundi is a serene village located just opposite to Hampi, on the northern bank of the river Tungabhadra; a place where evolution, history, mythology and folklore intertwine. The name Anegundi (or Anegondi, ಆನೆಗುಂದಿ/ಆನೆಗೊಂದಿ) originates from the Kannada language, meaning “Elephant pit.” It was the early capital of the Vijayanagara empire before it was moved to Hampi, possibly deriving its name from the king’s elephant stables that were originally situated here. For more in-depth information about Hampi & the Vijayanagara empire, you can look at [here]. According to experts in earth sciences, the rock formations in this area are estimated to be around 3000 million years old, making it one of the oldest plateaus on our planet. This suggests that it was among the first locations to solidify during the earth’s cooling process. Anegundi has been identified as having traces of early human settlements. The presence of Neolithic (Stone Age) burial grounds and primitive cave paintings in this area attracts […]

Mar 02

by GOPAN NAIR in Life in this India, travel 0 comments tags: country, diversity, expression, expressive, faces, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, Great, in, india, lens, photography, portrait, unity

FACES OF INDIA :: UNITY MEETS DIVERSITY

As my solo journey through rural India continues, I encounter people from various walks of life daily. India is often regarded as a land of mystery, history, magic, festivals, and mythology, among other things. It is said that the quest for India led to the discovery of America. I found that each unique face in India possesses a different kind of charm, and I never missed an opportunity to capture those enchanting expressions. Here are a few of my favorites:

Feb 26

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel 22 comments tags: achyutharaya, ancient, anegundi, blog, boulder, bukka, dynasty, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, hakka, hampi, Hazararama, hill, india, karnataka, krishnadevaraya, malyavanta, mathanga, photography, Purandara Dasa, ruins, talikota, temple, tuluva, tungabhadra, Vijayanagara, vittala, war

HAMPI, WHERE RUINS COME ALIVE !

Rivers are like the lifeblood of a nation, shaping its history and development. The ancient Vijayanagara empire, for example, thrived along the banks of rivers, with its roots intertwined with folklore and mythology when explored further. The river Pampa served as the vital artery of a magnificent civilization in the southern state of Karnataka, India. Evidence of ancient settlements can be discovered on the Northern bank of the river (Anegundi), linking back to the legendary tales of Ramayana and the monkey kingdom of Kishkindha. Explore more about Anegundi here >> The southern shores of the river were the backdrop for a sequence of conflicts and occurrences that trace back to the era of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. The term “Hampe” in Kannada originated from “Pampa” and was later anglicized to “Hampi” under British influence. The river formerly known as Pampa is now called Tungabhadra, and it continues to flow quietly amidst the remnants of the Vijayanagara empire. This piques the interest of every traveler. What could have caused the downfall of such a great empire? The Tunga and Bhadra rivers have their source in the Western Ghats, flow across the plains of Karnataka, and converge 150 kilometers […]

Dec 30

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel 2 comments tags: architecture, culture, gop.org, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, heritage, india, photography, walls

SIMPLY WALLS… !

The year 2015 is drawing to a close. Reflecting on the past year, I find that 2015 was a particularly eventful year in terms of photography. I have been working on organizing my favorite photographs into categories, and the first category I have created is ‘walls’. Indeed, those walls captivated me…

Oct 31

DEVOTION, DEEP INSIDE THE JUNGLE : THIRUNELLI TEMPLE

Thirunelli MahaVishnu Temple stands as one of the most ancient and revered places of worship in Kerala. The name ‘Thiru Nelli’ translates to Holy Gooseberry tree (Amla). According to the sacred Hindu texts or puranas, Lord Brahma was captivated by the beauty of this valley and chose to descend upon it. It was then that he discovered an idol of Lord Vishnu situated on a gooseberry tree. Recognizing the divine presence of Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma consecrated the idol at the site and bestowed blessings upon the temple, declaring it as a sanctum that absolves all sins. As a result, the water stream in this area came to be known as Papanasini. Thirunelli temple, situated in the Wayanad district of Kerala, is surrounded by the lush green mountains of the Brahmagiri ranges, which are adjacent to the Western Ghats. It is located in north Wayanad, 34 kilometers away from Mananthavady. The exact age of the temple is unknown, but historians believe it could be 3000 years old, making it one of the oldest temples in Kerala. According to popular belief, the temple was founded by Chera King Kulasekharan (AD 767 – 834). Copper plate inscriptions discovered in the area date […]

Sep 26

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel 2 comments tags: Achutaraya, bangalore, day, empire, ganesh, getaway, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, idol, Le Pakshi, Lepakshi, linga, naga, one, shiva, temple, trip, Veerabhadra, Vijayanagara, Virupanna

BANGALORE WEEKEND GETAWAY SERIES : LEPAKSHI TEMPLE

The term “Le Pakshi” in Telugu translates to “Rise, Bird”. This name originates from the epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama encounters the dying Jatayu and grants him the blessing to ascend to heaven. The ancient Hindu scripture Skandapurana identifies Lepakshi as one of the 108 significant Shaivite pilgrimage sites in Southern India. Another narrative suggests that Lepakshi was derived from ‘Lepa + Akshi’, signifying ’embalmed eye’. Lepakshi, situated around 120 km north of Bangalore, is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. This small village in Anantapur District of Andhra Pradesh, India, is located just 15 km away from Hindupur. The renowned Lepakshi Temple, dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra, a form of Shiva, was constructed during the reign of the Vijayanagara Kings (1336–1646). The temple, constructed in AD-1530 on a small hillock resembling a tortoise, is famously known as Kurma Saila. According to historical records, the temple was commissioned by two siblings named Virupanna and Viranna, who served as Governors during the rule of King Achutaraya. An intriguing tale surrounds the temple’s construction, involving Virupanna, the treasurer of the Vijayanagara Kingdom. While the King was absent, Virupanna managed the funds for the temple’s development. However, upon the King’s return during the […]

Aug 29

BANGALORE WEEKEND GETAWAY SERIES : BHOGA NANDEESHWARA TEMPLE

Bangalore city and its surrounding areas boast numerous captivating destinations perfect for a weekend getaway. Among these is the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, a stunning architectural marvel nestled at the base of Nandi Hills, approximately 55 kilometers from the city center. The quaint Nandi village is located 18 kilometers beyond Devanahalli (home to Bangalore International Airport) along the Bangalore-Hyderabad Highway. According to the archaeological survey of India, the original temple was constructed in the years 806-810 AD, following the typical Dravidian style by Bana Queen Ratnavali. It came under the patronage of various dynasties such as Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Pallavas, Vijayanagara kings, and even Tipu Sultan in later periods. The temple has been altered by different rulers until the area fell under British control in 1799, following the demise of Tipu Sultan. There are a pair of significant shrines within the temple compound. The Arunachaleswara temple, situated in the southern corner, was commissioned by the Gangas of Talakad (<Read about it by clicking here), while the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, located on the northern side, was erected by the Chola Kings. A sculpture depicting a king can be observed within the temple complex, thought to be that of Rajendra Chola. The Bhoga […]

Jul 29

by GOPAN NAIR in Life in this India, travel, Varanasi 11 comments tags: aarti, Assi Ghat, benaras, benares, Dashashwamedh Ghat, gali, ganga, ganges, ghat, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops.org, Harishchandra Ghat, hindu, holy, kashi, Manikarnika, Manikarnika Ghat, photo, photography, river, sadhu, spiritual, spirituality, street, Tulsi Ghat, varanasi, Vishwanath Temple, worship

VARANASI, A CITY BEYOND LIFE & DEATH

VARANASI, also recognized as BENARAS or KASHI, holds the prestigious title of being the oldest living city globally, with a well-documented history of over 3000 years. Mark Twain’s words resonate as he stated, “Varanasi is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and appears twice as old as all of them combined.” This ancient city has withstood the test of time, existing even during the childhood years of Siddhartha Gautama, who would later become known as Buddha. Varanasi is located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, on the western bank of the sacred Ganga River. This ancient city, revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs, serves as a religious hub. Despite facing destruction by Mughals and other invaders over the centuries, Varanasi continues to stand as a place where the past and present, eternity and continuity, philosophy and wisdom harmoniously coexist. For Hindus, Kashi holds the same level of sanctity as Mecca does for Muslims and Jerusalem does for Christians. It is widely believed that one must receive an invitation from a higher power in order to visit Varanasi. I believe this holds true in everyday life as well. Despite my tendency to procrastinate, the trip […]

Jun 18

KOTACHADRI : ADVENTURE MEETS WITH DEVOTION

Kodachadri, situated in the Western Ghats in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, is undeniably one of the most stunning tourist spots in India. A visit to Kodachadri could be an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and thrill-seeking drivers. It is located 1343 meters above sea level and is approximately 30 kilometers away from the temple town Kollur. The area is surrounded by verdant hills and is home to a diverse range of wildlife and tropical flora. The valley has been designated as a natural heritage site by the state government. The term Kodachadri (Kodachadri in Kannada, Kutajadri in Sanskrit, and Malayalam കുടജാദ്രി) originates from the Sanskrit words ‘Kutaja’ and ‘Adri’. Kutaja refers to a species of Mountain Jasmine flower (കുടകപ്പാല, Kutakappaala or Giri-Mallika) while Adri signifies a hill. The Kutaja plant also possesses Ayurvedic medicinal qualities. The breathtaking vista from the summit of Kodachadri peak is captivating. The peak can be reached via a challenging trekking path spanning approximately 9 to 12 km through thick woodland. This trek is designed for individuals in good physical condition and necessitates authorization from the forest department. Alternatively, it can be accessed via a 30 km off-road jeep route from Kollur town. […]

Mar 31

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel, Varanasi 4 comments tags: benaras, boat, boatman, folk, ganga, ganges, ghat, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, hidden, india, indian, kashi, photography, ride, river, sing, singer, song, talent, varanasi

VARANASI :: SONG OF THE BOAT MAN

Bhumi Nishad, the skilled boatman, was delighting his passengers as they cruised along the Ganga river in Varanasi. The morning boat ride in Varanasi (Kashi), India, is a truly memorable experience for all who visit. I was captivated by his singing, reminiscent of a seasoned Indian classical vocalist. India is home to many undiscovered talents waiting to be unearthed. A boat ride across Ganga River in the night rejuvenates the body and soul. Experience it yourself :

Feb 05

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel 2 comments tags: ashok, ashoka, benaras, bodhi, buddha, buddhist, chakra, Dhamek, Dhamekh, Dhamekha, Dharm Chakra, emperor, gaya, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, holy, Isipatana, maurya, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Temple, peepal, photography, pilgrimage, pillar, Rishipattana, sarnath, site, stambha, stupa, tree, varanasi

SARNATH, THE BIRTH PLACE OF BUDDHISM

“Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.” :-Gautam Buddha The emblem of India was derived from an Ashoka Pillar discovered in Sarnath. The Lion Capital of Ashoka is a statue featuring four lions seated back to back, as well as the ‘Dharm Chakra’ (Wheel of Dharma/ Ashoka Chakra, with 24 spokes) positioned on top and mounted on a pillar (Stupa, Stambh). Emperor Ashoka erected the renowned Ashoka Pillar at this site, which was destroyed by Turk and Islamic invaders. The remnants of the pillar can still be seen at its original location, bearing inscriptions in Brahmi script. The Lion Capital and Ashoka Chakra are preserved in the adjacent Archaeology museum. The four lions symbolize power, courage, confidence, and pride, as well as Ashoka’s rule extending in all four directions. In addition to the lions, the pillar also features a horse, a bull, an elephant, and a lion, representing the various stages of Buddha’s life. The monolithic polished Chunar sandstone pillar stands at a height of 15.25 meters, with a diameter of 0.71 meters at the base and 0.56 meters at the top. Sarnath, situated 10 kilometers away from Varanasi […]

Feb 02

by GOPAN NAIR in Indian architecture & Heritage, travel 9 comments tags: badrinath, bhim, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, gufa, himalaya, hinduism, indian, last, mana, myth, pandava, photography, pul, uttarkhand, village, vyas

MANA, THE LAST INDIAN VILLAGE AND THE ROAD TO HEAVEN

> Buy a commercial license to use this image by clicking here < It was in the evening of April 30, 2009, we decided to drive from Badrinath to Mana Village. Mana, famously known as the last village on Indian land, with Tibet situated beyond, was a destination we were eager to explore. The well-known trade route, Mana Pass, is located 48 kilometers ahead of this village, but has been closed-off since 1962. After parking our car at the entrance of Mana, we set off on foot through the village. This mysterious Himalayan valley is renowned for its mythological significance, being surrounded by a plethora of myths and legends from the epic Mahabharat. It is widely believed that Veda Vyas composed the Mahabharat while residing in this very place. Mana, located at an elevation of 3118 meters (10229 ft) above sea level, is approximately 3 kilometers away from the sacred city of Badrinath in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The indigenous community, known as the Bhutia tribe, traces its roots back to Tibet and sought refuge in India following the Chinese invasion. Residents dwell in stone huts coated with mud, engaging in activities such as weaving woolen garments and tending to livestock […]

Jan 21

by GOPAN NAIR in travel 2 comments tags: 1984, bangalore, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, greenery, lake, new, old, photography, ulsoor, vintage

ULSOOR LAKE, BANGALORE IN 1984 AND TODAY

ULSOOR LAKE, BANGALORE, photographed from the same spot within a gap of 30 years . The first picture was photographed by me in 1984. The famous Ulsoor Lake of Bangalore. The sepia tone came naturally due to the ageing of film. Those were the days of peace & tranquility in Bangalore…! Captured with a Yashica Electro-35 film camera. Let’s have a look at the same place today (Jan-2015), photographed from the very same location. I was happy to notice that nothing much has changed around the lake during these 3 decades, though most of the city’s greenery has been eaten up by concrete jungle..! The Public Utility Building built in 1973 was the tallest building those days, which is still visible today in the background.

Jan 14

by GOPAN NAIR in travel, Wonders of Nature 2 comments tags: bloom, blossom, flower, gopan, gopan g nair, gops, gops photography, gops.org, kerala, Kunthiana, kurinji, munnar, neela, NEELAKURINJI, nilgiri, Strobilanthes, Strobilanthes Kunthiana

WHEN NEELAKURINJI BLOSSOMS

The stunning sight of Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes Kunthiana), a fabled purple-blue flower that blossoms once every 12 years in the mountain ranges of Munnar in Kerala. Following the last bloom in 2006, another widespread flowering in the Nilgiris-Palanis-Munnar area is anticipated only in 2018. Interestingly, there was a cluster of plants in the area that bloomed four years earlier than the rest of the community in the region, and I was fortunate to witness this rare event in October 2014. However, it remains uncertain whether these plants will survive for the next season. The Nilgiri Hills, also known as the “blue mountains,” are thought to have derived their name from the Neelakurinji flowers. It is fascinating to note that the Paliyan tribes, who resided in this area, used to determine their age according to the blooming cycle of these flowers.

PERISHING MUNIYARA DOLMENS OF MARAYOOR, MUNNAR

A HINDU MONK FROM ITALY

CHAND BAORI OF ABHANERI (WORLD’S LARGEST STEP WELL)

MOODS OF THE MONKEY KINGDOM

HIRE BENAKAL : VALLEY OF THE DEAD !

ANOTHER RAINY DAY IN AGUMBE

ENCHANTING ELLORA

AJANTA CAVES : WHEN ROCKS TELL STORIES

THE RIVER AND BEYOND… ANEGUNDI

FACES OF INDIA :: UNITY MEETS DIVERSITY

HAMPI, WHERE RUINS COME ALIVE !

SIMPLY WALLS… !

DEVOTION, DEEP INSIDE THE JUNGLE : THIRUNELLI TEMPLE

BANGALORE WEEKEND GETAWAY SERIES : LEPAKSHI TEMPLE

BANGALORE WEEKEND GETAWAY SERIES : BHOGA NANDEESHWARA TEMPLE

VARANASI, A CITY BEYOND LIFE & DEATH

KOTACHADRI : ADVENTURE MEETS WITH DEVOTION

VARANASI :: SONG OF THE BOAT MAN

SARNATH, THE BIRTH PLACE OF BUDDHISM

MANA, THE LAST INDIAN VILLAGE AND THE ROAD TO HEAVEN

ULSOOR LAKE, BANGALORE IN 1984 AND TODAY

WHEN NEELAKURINJI BLOSSOMS

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