10th Jan: left for Udaipur by DEE ADI EXP., never had an idea that such a train exist and that there is any station named SARAI ROHILLA in Delhi. Anyway, got the tickets in the morning and in the evening I was about to leave for sarai rohilla. Dad asked me whether I could find it by myself, I said “YES.” But he said, no I will also be coming with you, as I have not seen that area. Dad has a very good database about the bus routes in Delhi. But “SARAI ROHILLA” was not found in his database.
Both of us left for Sarai_R.Asked a few autowallahs but no one was interested in Sarai_R. Atlast got one and left for Sarai_R. Reached there in proper time, Ashok called up on my mobile. As he was from Udaipur, he provided with all information which I may need in Udaipur like whether there is any ICICI ATM in U’pur?………What I should bring back from there as a souvenir?
Reached Sarai-R, asked from the fellow at INQUIRY about the departure of Dee Adi Exp. I was told that the train would leave from Platform No.3. We moved towards the platform. Checked my name in the Reservation chart and made a move into the coach.
Dad went out to get some food for my dinner, as mom had gone to kolkata we had to manage our food by ourselves. He managed to find some-“MATAR PANEER+TANDOORI ROTI” and a bottle of bada BISLERI (with 20% extra which means one can get a bottle full of 1200ml of water at Rs.10/-). A few co-passengers told me that there would not be any major stations untill AJMER. So, I need to load food+water as much as I need.
Started chatting with co-passengers as the train and dad left. A lady from some of the Northeastern states was also in our cabin. She was feeling very uncomfortable, that is what I could make out from her gestures. Had my dinner and went for a smoke-offered by Mr. Patodia.
Slept for about eight hrs.
11th Jan.: A very boring day nothing to do.justed chatted with Mr. Basu from NIS. We had discussion on a wide range of issues…. political, sports, bengal as obvious when I came to know that he is also a “NRB”-what’s that? NON-RESIDENTIAL BENGALI.
In the evening we got down at U’pur. Straightway left for HOTEL-INDIA INTERNATIONAL, that was about to be my living place for next week. Reached the hotel, got my keys as I have had booked the room earlier and to the ROOM #122. Had my dinner through room service- “subz udaipuri-a mewari preparation” + tandoori roti. Came out to ring Dad and to kolkata.
12th Jan.: Training started. Arrangements were good, we were given identity tags that we were supposed to put around our necks, a bag as usual, pen, pencil, eraser…. etc. A total of 23 participants were there from various organizations including NTPC, POWERGRID, WBSEB, PSEB, UPERC, NDPL, etc.
First class was by Mr. kaushik Ghosh and met the expectations of all the participants. I was not feeling all right because of the journey and over exposure to a device, invented by John Logie Baird and more popularly known as T.V..But somehow I just carried over. I tried to concentrate on class in the afternoon session, but I found it very difficult. I was having a travel book with me – ‘52 WEEKENDS FROM DELHI’- and last night I had already had a look at the places where I can move around in Udaipur. In the evening went out with “Gaurav”-a new friend from NOIDA POWER. We moved around sukhadia circle although we did not know by what name it is known, it is only later I found out that it was sukhadia Circle.
13th Jan.: Got up early in the morning, early by my standards not comparable to someone who lives in Varanasi. Made up my mind to leave for City palace before the class. Had a bath and left for city palace.
It was really beautiful, a commanding monument on the bank of lake PICHHOLA and overlooking the simply superb lake palace. Please refer the photos if the literature is unable to give a clear picture. Took the tickets, one for myself and other for GUESS? Don’t take it otherwise I am talking about my camera – CANON prima (auto focus; 32mm lens). Moved inside the palace and closely watched the art facts and all other things – the medieval Indian architecture, the exquisite touch of MEWAR, unmatched miniatures showing the city palace from various angles, … Clicked a few photographs here and there but it was difficult to get myself photographed. Asked a fellow for help, he took the photographs quite well with me in the photo frame and city palace in the backdrop.
Both of us left for Sarai_R.Asked a few autowallahs but no one was interested in Sarai_R. Atlast got one and left for Sarai_R. Reached there in proper time, Ashok called up on my mobile. As he was from Udaipur, he provided with all information which I may need in Udaipur like whether there is any ICICI ATM in U’pur?………What I should bring back from there as a souvenir?
Reached Sarai-R, asked from the fellow at INQUIRY about the departure of Dee Adi Exp. I was told that the train would leave from Platform No.3. We moved towards the platform. Checked my name in the Reservation chart and made a move into the coach.
Dad went out to get some food for my dinner, as mom had gone to kolkata we had to manage our food by ourselves. He managed to find some-“MATAR PANEER+TANDOORI ROTI” and a bottle of bada BISLERI (with 20% extra which means one can get a bottle full of 1200ml of water at Rs.10/-). A few co-passengers told me that there would not be any major stations untill AJMER. So, I need to load food+water as much as I need.
Started chatting with co-passengers as the train and dad left. A lady from some of the Northeastern states was also in our cabin. She was feeling very uncomfortable, that is what I could make out from her gestures. Had my dinner and went for a smoke-offered by Mr. Patodia.
Slept for about eight hrs.
11th Jan.: A very boring day nothing to do.justed chatted with Mr. Basu from NIS. We had discussion on a wide range of issues…. political, sports, bengal as obvious when I came to know that he is also a “NRB”-what’s that? NON-RESIDENTIAL BENGALI.
In the evening we got down at U’pur. Straightway left for HOTEL-INDIA INTERNATIONAL, that was about to be my living place for next week. Reached the hotel, got my keys as I have had booked the room earlier and to the ROOM #122. Had my dinner through room service- “subz udaipuri-a mewari preparation” + tandoori roti. Came out to ring Dad and to kolkata.
12th Jan.: Training started. Arrangements were good, we were given identity tags that we were supposed to put around our necks, a bag as usual, pen, pencil, eraser…. etc. A total of 23 participants were there from various organizations including NTPC, POWERGRID, WBSEB, PSEB, UPERC, NDPL, etc.
First class was by Mr. kaushik Ghosh and met the expectations of all the participants. I was not feeling all right because of the journey and over exposure to a device, invented by John Logie Baird and more popularly known as T.V..But somehow I just carried over. I tried to concentrate on class in the afternoon session, but I found it very difficult. I was having a travel book with me – ‘52 WEEKENDS FROM DELHI’- and last night I had already had a look at the places where I can move around in Udaipur. In the evening went out with “Gaurav”-a new friend from NOIDA POWER. We moved around sukhadia circle although we did not know by what name it is known, it is only later I found out that it was sukhadia Circle.
13th Jan.: Got up early in the morning, early by my standards not comparable to someone who lives in Varanasi. Made up my mind to leave for City palace before the class. Had a bath and left for city palace.
It was really beautiful, a commanding monument on the bank of lake PICHHOLA and overlooking the simply superb lake palace. Please refer the photos if the literature is unable to give a clear picture. Took the tickets, one for myself and other for GUESS? Don’t take it otherwise I am talking about my camera – CANON prima (auto focus; 32mm lens). Moved inside the palace and closely watched the art facts and all other things – the medieval Indian architecture, the exquisite touch of MEWAR, unmatched miniatures showing the city palace from various angles, … Clicked a few photographs here and there but it was difficult to get myself photographed. Asked a fellow for help, he took the photographs quite well with me in the photo frame and city palace in the backdrop.
It was really a beautiful palace, four stories above the ground level and may a few stories underground as well. I was surprised to find some trees in the third floor courtyard. I asked a gardener “where these roots have gone?”. But he gave me a very dull and negative reply.
I had an immediate feeling that the man is happy with what he is doing.
I also felt that, “what is amazing for me - as I am a tourist is something where he may have been working for years altogether”. Probably the way he feels is somewhat comparable to what I may think of transformers, sub-stations, and such things that I deal with everyday.
Having moved around the major share of the massive palace, I came down to the ground floor. Met a man and both of us decided that it would be better to take an “auto rickshaw”. Moved outside and clicked a few more photographs and the both of us took an auto rickshaw and moved towards MOTI MAGRI (near fateh sagar lake). Walked for about half a kilometer to reach the “PRATAP memorial” at the top. A great scenic view can be enjoyed from that point. Enjoyed a gold flake (badiwali) there and came back. Then we decided to come back and unanimously decided to move towards the Sahelion ki badi (SKB). On the way that fellow told me about why he has come to Udaipur. He was telling me something in which I had no interest. But still I managed to show him that I am listening.
We reached “SKB” and entered the complex. Initially thought “WAH” what a beautiful place this is? But very soon my excitement turned into disappointment. There was nothing worth mentioning, a few scientific specimens for children, a pool with no water and a few white elephants of marble of course. It was told that the garden was made for the royal kids who often came here to spend their leisure time.
During the class in second half, Mr. Karandikar of NDPL gave me an offer to go for an outing early morning the next day. He arranged one vehicle and was thinking to go to Nathdwara. Immediately I gave my consent. It was decided that four of us would leave tomorrow at 5:30 in the morning. All the time it was in my mind that I would have to wake up by 4:00 in the morning. Set the Mobile alarm and went to bed.
14th Jan.: Got up as soon as the alarm rang. Actually I had many breaks throughout the whole night at the very thought of getting up early. Anyway got up and I was ready by 5:25 went to gaurav’s room and rang the bell. I got no response, tried and again nom response the he came at the door rubbing his eyes. I just told him “OKAY”! No problem you better go back from where you came. Go and sleep, we are leaving.
Started with Mr.Karandikar and Mr. Mahendra gupta, both from NDPL. Straightway we went to “EKLINGJI” our driver told us that this temple was a royal one and in the earlier days the RANAS of Udaipur had to come here before all important engagements including marriages, wars, … etc. We were informed that even today the present RANA visits this temple on important occasions. He comes barefoot from his palace in the city around 20 Kms. from this ancient temple. It is believed that the temples were build around 6-7th century that were later renovated by the RANAS and consequently it became the family temple of theirs.
It was a collection of nearby 100 temples placed in a congested manner around the main central temple. I was having my camera but unfortunately photography was prohibited I gave my camera to the guard and visited the temple with some flowers. Came back and started for NATHDWARA – a very famous temple of lord Krishna more popularly known as SHRINATHJI.
On our way we discussed with the driver if we can go to HALDIGHATI from Nathdwara and reach back Udaipur by 9:15 as our classes were supposed to start from 9:30. He gave us a green signal regarding the same and we immediately decided that the opportunity should be used to the fullest.
Reached Nathdwara; parked the vehicle and moved towards the temple.
I was surprised to find that vegetables and fruits were being sold at the gate of the temple. Later we came to know that these are offered to SHRINATHJI. We went inside the temple and moved around, as we were searching for the place from where we can have a look at the deity. Sooner we found a gate and a big crowd around that gate. When inquired we came to know that the gate will be opened shortly and we can see SHRINATHJI.
As Mr. Karandikar was wearing a suit, the pandas moving around thought that he could be made a “BAKRA.” And yes! Very soon a panda that told that he is not a guide and he is doing it as a part of his job accompanied us. But we got a idea that we will have to give him some “DAKSHINA” for whatever efforts he is making to familiarize us to the every corner of the temple in the early morning hours.
We had a good look at lord “SHRINATHJI.” It was told that the lord has 365 “shringars” for every day of the calendar. Aurangzeb had generously given one big diamond to the lord, which is placed centrally between his lower lips and chin. We offered some five litres of milk to the god not knowingly where it would go and from it came.
Then we moved out and started for HALDIGHATI, the place where Maharana Pratap fought against the Mughals and lost. Maharaja of jaipur changed sides and fought for the Mughals. Mughals wanted to spread their influence and in the process made many people angry. Maharana of Mewar had a very firm belief that the Mewar is an independent region and it should not come under the Mughal Empire. Because of this Maharana Pratap, who considered the Mughals as outsiders opposed the Mughal moves to annex the Mewar Region to the “MIGHTY MUGHAL EMPIRE.”
On our way to haldighati we saw the - CHETAK SAMADHI. Chetak was the name of Pratap’s faithful horse that saved him, when he was near to defeat. Chetak lost his life but saved his master. Pratap lost the battle and Chetak as well. He then committed himself to tough life of jungles and formed his army with the regional tribes. With his army he fought again and to some extent captured some of the regions that he earlier lost to the Mughals.
Went to the Pratap memorial and saw a small film on the life of Pratap. But putting it together it was a disappointment. Started for Udaipur and were back in the hotel by 9:20. Went to the room; got refreshed and joined the class. I was feeling sleepy but somehow I managed to be active.
15th Jan.: A very ordinary day with nothing special but at the end of the day there was a very good news. Got up, had b’fast and went to the conference hall for classes. Had lunch and then again classes. After classes went outside and wandered around HATHIPOLE. Came back had dinner at restaurant with Gaurav. I was watching television when my cell phone rang and because of the tune I knew that it’s Sanjeev da. He informed me “maloy tui mama hoye gechis” I was really happy and very excited. What more one can ask for?
16th Jan.: went to class but one thing occupied my mind throughout the class. Moved out to the nearest STD phone booth and called up “sanjeev da” on his mobile. He was busy receiving phone call from all other well wishers and relatives. At last “I got him.” Inquired about my Bhagney, how does he look like? When he will be taken to home? …and more questions. Came back attended the class, had lunch, again class.
At the end of the day we were really exhausted, asked gaurav whether we would love to go to hotel LAKEND where secure meters had arranged a party for us all. At last we decided that we would not go to the party, but then Mr. Karandikar and Mr. Mahendra Gupta tried to convince us and informed us that it will be a “COCKTAIL PARTY.” Both of us decided to go to the party. Mr. Dubey of YADAV Measurement was heading the group.
We went to Hotel LAKEND after picking other participants from their hotels. Reached the hotel and started our evening with some whisky (as much I remember that was Antiquity). Myself, gaurav, and vamsi Mohan enjoyed our drinks and then moved for the dinner. During the dinner we had a discussion on the coming assembly elections. Mr. Rathin das from WBSEB shared an interesting joke about how mao-tse-tung, Stalin, and jyoti basu (more popularly known as jyoti “babu” in Bengal) spread the communism. Had a great party, came back to the hotel by bus, and straightway went to bed.
17th Jan.: Got up with slight hangover. Actually had drinks after a break of many days that may the reason for enhanced action. I remember when I was in korba that time 2-3 pegs never used to trouble me. I remember 5-6 pegs used to the normal course at that time. Even at farakka, I used to drink but gradually, may be for the sake of my benefit I had stopped taking regularly. Now I am going for drinks only at select occasions.
All the participants demanded an early leave from the hotel as some had to leave on the same day and others just wanted to move around the Udaipur city. Mr. Vyas of YMPL agreed and we were free by 1:50 including the lunch.
We decided to go to the Monsoon palace at SAJJANGARH.
We started with a “SUMO” and Mr. Choubey as our navigator. The drive to the palace was really a refreshing one. Sajjangarh has the distinction of being the highest point in Udaipur. On our way we met some near 180 degrees turn and there was no fence along the whole road. We were thinking that any mistake by the driver would take us to the heaven beyond any doubts. After some 20 minutes we reached the top where the palace is situated. Moved around the whole palace and kept clicking. Gaurav helped me in taking a few photographs of mine.
I had an immediate feeling that the man is happy with what he is doing.
I also felt that, “what is amazing for me - as I am a tourist is something where he may have been working for years altogether”. Probably the way he feels is somewhat comparable to what I may think of transformers, sub-stations, and such things that I deal with everyday.
Having moved around the major share of the massive palace, I came down to the ground floor. Met a man and both of us decided that it would be better to take an “auto rickshaw”. Moved outside and clicked a few more photographs and the both of us took an auto rickshaw and moved towards MOTI MAGRI (near fateh sagar lake). Walked for about half a kilometer to reach the “PRATAP memorial” at the top. A great scenic view can be enjoyed from that point. Enjoyed a gold flake (badiwali) there and came back. Then we decided to come back and unanimously decided to move towards the Sahelion ki badi (SKB). On the way that fellow told me about why he has come to Udaipur. He was telling me something in which I had no interest. But still I managed to show him that I am listening.
We reached “SKB” and entered the complex. Initially thought “WAH” what a beautiful place this is? But very soon my excitement turned into disappointment. There was nothing worth mentioning, a few scientific specimens for children, a pool with no water and a few white elephants of marble of course. It was told that the garden was made for the royal kids who often came here to spend their leisure time.
During the class in second half, Mr. Karandikar of NDPL gave me an offer to go for an outing early morning the next day. He arranged one vehicle and was thinking to go to Nathdwara. Immediately I gave my consent. It was decided that four of us would leave tomorrow at 5:30 in the morning. All the time it was in my mind that I would have to wake up by 4:00 in the morning. Set the Mobile alarm and went to bed.
14th Jan.: Got up as soon as the alarm rang. Actually I had many breaks throughout the whole night at the very thought of getting up early. Anyway got up and I was ready by 5:25 went to gaurav’s room and rang the bell. I got no response, tried and again nom response the he came at the door rubbing his eyes. I just told him “OKAY”! No problem you better go back from where you came. Go and sleep, we are leaving.
Started with Mr.Karandikar and Mr. Mahendra gupta, both from NDPL. Straightway we went to “EKLINGJI” our driver told us that this temple was a royal one and in the earlier days the RANAS of Udaipur had to come here before all important engagements including marriages, wars, … etc. We were informed that even today the present RANA visits this temple on important occasions. He comes barefoot from his palace in the city around 20 Kms. from this ancient temple. It is believed that the temples were build around 6-7th century that were later renovated by the RANAS and consequently it became the family temple of theirs.
It was a collection of nearby 100 temples placed in a congested manner around the main central temple. I was having my camera but unfortunately photography was prohibited I gave my camera to the guard and visited the temple with some flowers. Came back and started for NATHDWARA – a very famous temple of lord Krishna more popularly known as SHRINATHJI.
On our way we discussed with the driver if we can go to HALDIGHATI from Nathdwara and reach back Udaipur by 9:15 as our classes were supposed to start from 9:30. He gave us a green signal regarding the same and we immediately decided that the opportunity should be used to the fullest.
Reached Nathdwara; parked the vehicle and moved towards the temple.
I was surprised to find that vegetables and fruits were being sold at the gate of the temple. Later we came to know that these are offered to SHRINATHJI. We went inside the temple and moved around, as we were searching for the place from where we can have a look at the deity. Sooner we found a gate and a big crowd around that gate. When inquired we came to know that the gate will be opened shortly and we can see SHRINATHJI.
As Mr. Karandikar was wearing a suit, the pandas moving around thought that he could be made a “BAKRA.” And yes! Very soon a panda that told that he is not a guide and he is doing it as a part of his job accompanied us. But we got a idea that we will have to give him some “DAKSHINA” for whatever efforts he is making to familiarize us to the every corner of the temple in the early morning hours.
We had a good look at lord “SHRINATHJI.” It was told that the lord has 365 “shringars” for every day of the calendar. Aurangzeb had generously given one big diamond to the lord, which is placed centrally between his lower lips and chin. We offered some five litres of milk to the god not knowingly where it would go and from it came.
Then we moved out and started for HALDIGHATI, the place where Maharana Pratap fought against the Mughals and lost. Maharaja of jaipur changed sides and fought for the Mughals. Mughals wanted to spread their influence and in the process made many people angry. Maharana of Mewar had a very firm belief that the Mewar is an independent region and it should not come under the Mughal Empire. Because of this Maharana Pratap, who considered the Mughals as outsiders opposed the Mughal moves to annex the Mewar Region to the “MIGHTY MUGHAL EMPIRE.”
On our way to haldighati we saw the - CHETAK SAMADHI. Chetak was the name of Pratap’s faithful horse that saved him, when he was near to defeat. Chetak lost his life but saved his master. Pratap lost the battle and Chetak as well. He then committed himself to tough life of jungles and formed his army with the regional tribes. With his army he fought again and to some extent captured some of the regions that he earlier lost to the Mughals.
Went to the Pratap memorial and saw a small film on the life of Pratap. But putting it together it was a disappointment. Started for Udaipur and were back in the hotel by 9:20. Went to the room; got refreshed and joined the class. I was feeling sleepy but somehow I managed to be active.
15th Jan.: A very ordinary day with nothing special but at the end of the day there was a very good news. Got up, had b’fast and went to the conference hall for classes. Had lunch and then again classes. After classes went outside and wandered around HATHIPOLE. Came back had dinner at restaurant with Gaurav. I was watching television when my cell phone rang and because of the tune I knew that it’s Sanjeev da. He informed me “maloy tui mama hoye gechis” I was really happy and very excited. What more one can ask for?
16th Jan.: went to class but one thing occupied my mind throughout the class. Moved out to the nearest STD phone booth and called up “sanjeev da” on his mobile. He was busy receiving phone call from all other well wishers and relatives. At last “I got him.” Inquired about my Bhagney, how does he look like? When he will be taken to home? …and more questions. Came back attended the class, had lunch, again class.
At the end of the day we were really exhausted, asked gaurav whether we would love to go to hotel LAKEND where secure meters had arranged a party for us all. At last we decided that we would not go to the party, but then Mr. Karandikar and Mr. Mahendra Gupta tried to convince us and informed us that it will be a “COCKTAIL PARTY.” Both of us decided to go to the party. Mr. Dubey of YADAV Measurement was heading the group.
We went to Hotel LAKEND after picking other participants from their hotels. Reached the hotel and started our evening with some whisky (as much I remember that was Antiquity). Myself, gaurav, and vamsi Mohan enjoyed our drinks and then moved for the dinner. During the dinner we had a discussion on the coming assembly elections. Mr. Rathin das from WBSEB shared an interesting joke about how mao-tse-tung, Stalin, and jyoti basu (more popularly known as jyoti “babu” in Bengal) spread the communism. Had a great party, came back to the hotel by bus, and straightway went to bed.
17th Jan.: Got up with slight hangover. Actually had drinks after a break of many days that may the reason for enhanced action. I remember when I was in korba that time 2-3 pegs never used to trouble me. I remember 5-6 pegs used to the normal course at that time. Even at farakka, I used to drink but gradually, may be for the sake of my benefit I had stopped taking regularly. Now I am going for drinks only at select occasions.
All the participants demanded an early leave from the hotel as some had to leave on the same day and others just wanted to move around the Udaipur city. Mr. Vyas of YMPL agreed and we were free by 1:50 including the lunch.
We decided to go to the Monsoon palace at SAJJANGARH.
We started with a “SUMO” and Mr. Choubey as our navigator. The drive to the palace was really a refreshing one. Sajjangarh has the distinction of being the highest point in Udaipur. On our way we met some near 180 degrees turn and there was no fence along the whole road. We were thinking that any mistake by the driver would take us to the heaven beyond any doubts. After some 20 minutes we reached the top where the palace is situated. Moved around the whole palace and kept clicking. Gaurav helped me in taking a few photographs of mine.
Started our return journey and on our way back, stopped at a few points. Dropped all others at their hotels and I headed for LAKE PICHHOLA, along with gaurav. We took tickets and moved to the boat for a ride in the beautiful lake, right at the doorsteps of the city palace. Took a few photographs. As we were the last persons to board the boat, we failed to get a proper seat. So we positioned us at the rear of the boat along with the navigator. But very soon all the co-passengers were jealous of our position when it came to taking photographs. We had the freedom of moving and repositioning ourselves, as we didn’t have a fixed seat. Others who can’t leave their seat were putting their best efforts to capture the beautiful and scenic lake pichhola with their photographic equipment.
A foreign tourist girl drew our attention. HOW?…no! You are wrong. Actually she was singing a Hindi song …..Tere naam..la.la..la..laaa. Moved around the lake, came back and headed towards HATHIPOLE.
Actually I wanted to buy some miniature paintings from Hathipole. I selected some five paintings and one marble painting and left for the hotel. Left the hotel for station. Had my dinner at the station- aaloo ka paratha with some sauce. Boarded LAKE CITY EXPRESS and tried to sleep. But as I had not put on any sweater, I couldn’t sleep the whole night.
18th Jan.: Reached AJMER by 4:15 in the morning. Went outside the railway station and took an auto rickshaw. Asked him to take me to any nearby hotel where I can take a room for about 300/- Rs. Failed to find one such and came back to station by the same auto rickshaw. Moved towards the First class waiting room, but not to my surprise the room was already occupied by some passengers who have never ever traveled by first class. But when I was about to enter one fellow asked me “first class hai na”. Brushed and had a cup of tea and left for PUSHKAR by bus.
I found myself at pushkar by 6:00 as the bus took hardly 20 minutes (ticket Rs.8/-). It was still dark and it was not advised to move around in an unknown place – this is what I thought. Two foreign girls who came in the same bus wanted to go to some hotel, but the other brokers were making their life difficult. They were making some dirty comments in Hindi, which the girls can hardly understand. But the only thing they can make out was that they need to be cautious. I told them not to say anything and just be patient. I think she got my message. At last gave them a few words of wisdom and advised them to wait for some time till the sun comes out.
Walked along the road leading to pushkar. It was hardly a kilometer far from the bus stand. Moved around the ghats, got involved in a confrontation with a “panda” and kept walking and exploring pushkar. Had 2-3 cups of tea.
While walking through the streets I was made target by one of the pandas wandering here and there. He offered to show me the important places and said he would not ask for any money but whatever I will give happily he will accept. He took me to a ghat and did something that failed to understand and then asked me to pay Rs.101/-. I made my way by paying a sum of Rs. 51/-. Then I went for a “PARIKRAMA” round the holy pushkar lake. I was also clicking at regular intervals. At 8:45 I started for Ajmer from Pushkar with some vermilion on my forehead and “prasada” in my bag that was given by YMPL, Udaipur.
Took a bus for Ajmer, a boy sitting next to me informed me about the latest score of the INDIA-AUSTRALIA cricket match. Reached Ajmer bus stand totally clueless where to go. Asked a few panwallah’s. I had in my mind that Amer fort is in Ajmer, but then one fellow told me, “no” that’s in Jaipur. I thought that it would be better to have something and then move ahead.
Searched for a decent restaurant and got one. Ordered one “choley bhature” I don’t know why although I had become quite health conscious because in the last year I had gained a lot of abdominal fats (guess why… alcoholic beverages).
While waiting for the order to be served I took out my Travel guide-52 weekends from Delhi. Glanced through the pages about Ajmer, the places to visit.
Left for Ajmer Sharif on a rickshaw, reached there. It was full of human congestion, shops all along the road leading to the “dargah” and their sales promoters on the streets. I bought a white handkerchief so that I can put it over my head. Entered the dargah, saw two large sized bowls at the entrance-one gifted by Akbar and the other by Jahangir used for making “kheer” for the devotees. Purchased one “chadar” and moved ahead.
The dargah was marvelously decorated with some few kilos of gold and silver. The chandeliers were massive, the walls with holy inscriptions from KORAN written beautifully. Really a gem-the calligraphy, design symmetry, penetrating shine. Moved around the dargah and then came out. When I came out the dargah I saw some “qawwals” at the rear gate. They were singing in the glory of khwaja moinnuddin chisti. Took some photographs and came out. Next target was “dhai din ka jhonpra,” hardly a kilometer walk from Ajmer sharif.
My book informed me that it was made in two and a half days. What a beautiful monument! Entered through the massive main entrance. Small mountains surrounded it, although the monument gives a clear impression that it was incomplete but the precision and craftsmanship can be judged from the carvings on the pillars and ceilings. “NO WAY” this is the thought which anyone would have, when told that it two and ½ days to finish off this massive structure. Please have a look at the pictures, I mean it’s very difficult to imagine otherwise.
Took a rickshaw and moved towards the spot from where I can get some vehicles for TARAGARH FORT. I have a special curiosity about forts- the lines and levels of fortification, the architecture, and the arrangements for defense.
But it was a great disappointment. The fort once held by heroic PRITHVIRAJ CHAUHAN was in shambles. Nothing actually remained, hardly a few walls of fortifications can be seen. One or two bastions scattered here and there-hardly one can get a feel of how it looked like in her heydays. Some ASI (or may be Tourism department) efforts can be seen on the drive to the top. At some places walls have been repaired, but the cement mortar speaks out its relative young age because of its color.
Taragarh was “A TOTAL DISAPPOINTMENT”
One dargah is also there at the hilltop, but not that impressive as Ajmer Sharif. Moved around and came back. Waited for some time and then started for station. Reached the station, made my way to the nearest coffee shop and had two coffees and a packet of chips. The platform was crowded because a few minutes back Rajdhani Express had come with students of the very famous MAYO College.
Few minutes later my train was placed on the platform no. 1. Boarded the train; I was feeling very tired. From 4:15 in the morning without a good sleep last night, it had moved around for about 12 hours. It was mental as well as physical strain that I was undergoing. Sat silently and ate up whatever was offered by the waiter in the train. Reached New Delhi station and headed towards home-at last.
A foreign tourist girl drew our attention. HOW?…no! You are wrong. Actually she was singing a Hindi song …..Tere naam..la.la..la..laaa. Moved around the lake, came back and headed towards HATHIPOLE.
Actually I wanted to buy some miniature paintings from Hathipole. I selected some five paintings and one marble painting and left for the hotel. Left the hotel for station. Had my dinner at the station- aaloo ka paratha with some sauce. Boarded LAKE CITY EXPRESS and tried to sleep. But as I had not put on any sweater, I couldn’t sleep the whole night.
18th Jan.: Reached AJMER by 4:15 in the morning. Went outside the railway station and took an auto rickshaw. Asked him to take me to any nearby hotel where I can take a room for about 300/- Rs. Failed to find one such and came back to station by the same auto rickshaw. Moved towards the First class waiting room, but not to my surprise the room was already occupied by some passengers who have never ever traveled by first class. But when I was about to enter one fellow asked me “first class hai na”. Brushed and had a cup of tea and left for PUSHKAR by bus.
I found myself at pushkar by 6:00 as the bus took hardly 20 minutes (ticket Rs.8/-). It was still dark and it was not advised to move around in an unknown place – this is what I thought. Two foreign girls who came in the same bus wanted to go to some hotel, but the other brokers were making their life difficult. They were making some dirty comments in Hindi, which the girls can hardly understand. But the only thing they can make out was that they need to be cautious. I told them not to say anything and just be patient. I think she got my message. At last gave them a few words of wisdom and advised them to wait for some time till the sun comes out.
Walked along the road leading to pushkar. It was hardly a kilometer far from the bus stand. Moved around the ghats, got involved in a confrontation with a “panda” and kept walking and exploring pushkar. Had 2-3 cups of tea.
While walking through the streets I was made target by one of the pandas wandering here and there. He offered to show me the important places and said he would not ask for any money but whatever I will give happily he will accept. He took me to a ghat and did something that failed to understand and then asked me to pay Rs.101/-. I made my way by paying a sum of Rs. 51/-. Then I went for a “PARIKRAMA” round the holy pushkar lake. I was also clicking at regular intervals. At 8:45 I started for Ajmer from Pushkar with some vermilion on my forehead and “prasada” in my bag that was given by YMPL, Udaipur.
Took a bus for Ajmer, a boy sitting next to me informed me about the latest score of the INDIA-AUSTRALIA cricket match. Reached Ajmer bus stand totally clueless where to go. Asked a few panwallah’s. I had in my mind that Amer fort is in Ajmer, but then one fellow told me, “no” that’s in Jaipur. I thought that it would be better to have something and then move ahead.
Searched for a decent restaurant and got one. Ordered one “choley bhature” I don’t know why although I had become quite health conscious because in the last year I had gained a lot of abdominal fats (guess why… alcoholic beverages).
While waiting for the order to be served I took out my Travel guide-52 weekends from Delhi. Glanced through the pages about Ajmer, the places to visit.
Left for Ajmer Sharif on a rickshaw, reached there. It was full of human congestion, shops all along the road leading to the “dargah” and their sales promoters on the streets. I bought a white handkerchief so that I can put it over my head. Entered the dargah, saw two large sized bowls at the entrance-one gifted by Akbar and the other by Jahangir used for making “kheer” for the devotees. Purchased one “chadar” and moved ahead.
The dargah was marvelously decorated with some few kilos of gold and silver. The chandeliers were massive, the walls with holy inscriptions from KORAN written beautifully. Really a gem-the calligraphy, design symmetry, penetrating shine. Moved around the dargah and then came out. When I came out the dargah I saw some “qawwals” at the rear gate. They were singing in the glory of khwaja moinnuddin chisti. Took some photographs and came out. Next target was “dhai din ka jhonpra,” hardly a kilometer walk from Ajmer sharif.
My book informed me that it was made in two and a half days. What a beautiful monument! Entered through the massive main entrance. Small mountains surrounded it, although the monument gives a clear impression that it was incomplete but the precision and craftsmanship can be judged from the carvings on the pillars and ceilings. “NO WAY” this is the thought which anyone would have, when told that it two and ½ days to finish off this massive structure. Please have a look at the pictures, I mean it’s very difficult to imagine otherwise.
Took a rickshaw and moved towards the spot from where I can get some vehicles for TARAGARH FORT. I have a special curiosity about forts- the lines and levels of fortification, the architecture, and the arrangements for defense.
But it was a great disappointment. The fort once held by heroic PRITHVIRAJ CHAUHAN was in shambles. Nothing actually remained, hardly a few walls of fortifications can be seen. One or two bastions scattered here and there-hardly one can get a feel of how it looked like in her heydays. Some ASI (or may be Tourism department) efforts can be seen on the drive to the top. At some places walls have been repaired, but the cement mortar speaks out its relative young age because of its color.
Taragarh was “A TOTAL DISAPPOINTMENT”
One dargah is also there at the hilltop, but not that impressive as Ajmer Sharif. Moved around and came back. Waited for some time and then started for station. Reached the station, made my way to the nearest coffee shop and had two coffees and a packet of chips. The platform was crowded because a few minutes back Rajdhani Express had come with students of the very famous MAYO College.
Few minutes later my train was placed on the platform no. 1. Boarded the train; I was feeling very tired. From 4:15 in the morning without a good sleep last night, it had moved around for about 12 hours. It was mental as well as physical strain that I was undergoing. Sat silently and ate up whatever was offered by the waiter in the train. Reached New Delhi station and headed towards home-at last.
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