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73-Day Road Trip in a 73-Year-Old Vintage Car: Gujarati Family’s Memorable Journey Goes Viral

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In an extraordinary feat that has captured the imagination of many, Daman Thakore and his family from Gujarat embarked on a 73-day road trip in their 73-year-old vintage car, a 1950 MG YT named Lal Pari. Their remarkable journey from Ahmedabad to London, covering 13,500 kilometers and crossing 16 countries, has recently gone viral on Instagram, showcasing stunning video captures and sparking widespread admiration.

The journey, meticulously planned over 11 months, was not just a road trip but a homage to the vintage car’s heritage. The car, manufactured in Abingdon, UK, had a symbolic homecoming as the Thakore family made their way to its birthplace. “The car was manufactured in a factory in Abingdon, UK, and we planned the trip with that as the final destination in mind. It was a sort of homecoming for her,” Daman Thakore shared with Better India.

The Epic Journey

The Thakore family set off from Ahmedabad on August 12, 2022, equipped with duffle bags and 80 kg of food. They took a sea route from Mumbai to Dubai, arriving on August 28, before continuing their journey by road. They reached the UK on October 26, completing an epic adventure that spanned 2.5 months and cost them about as much as a Mercedes.

Daman and his family encountered various challenges along the way, including the need for an international license and dealing with local road taxes and insurance fees in each new country. However, their determination and passion for the journey kept them going.

Preparation and Challenges

Preparing Lal Pari for the journey involved countless test drives around Gujarat to ensure she was road-ready. The family faced numerous logistical hurdles, but their meticulous planning and love for adventure saw them through. “73 days of madness, sweat, and blood,” Daman shared, celebrating Lal Pari’s remarkable journey from India to the United Kingdom. Their adventure made them the first Indians to accomplish such a feat in a vintage car.

Video Credit: https://www.instagram.com/theculturegully?igsh=YXgxZDRjanh3N3Jp

Social Media Frenzy

In October 2023, the family proudly shared their adventure on social media, thanking everyone for their support. The story quickly went viral, resonating with people worldwide. Social media buzzed with reactions, as users reminisced about their own adventures and marvelled at the family’s boldness and grit.

One user commented, “1976 I drove with my parents from London to Sri Lanka, more people must enjoy such once in a lifetime exciting overland trips.” Another user compared the family’s journey to the legendary Lawrence of Arabia, saying, “There was a Lawrence of Arabia. I know today Thakore of Ahmedabad,” while a third simply said, “That’s beautiful”.

A Journey of a Lifetime

The Thakore family’s 73-day road trip in their 73-year-old vintage car is a testament to the spirit of adventure and the love for exploring the world in unique ways. Their journey not only celebrates the rich heritage of their vintage car but also inspires countless others to dream big and embark on their own adventures.

This incredible story of determination, meticulous planning, and sheer passion serves as a reminder that with the right spirit, no journey is too challenging, and every destination is within reach.

World’s Largest Ghevar Created in Jaipur Sets New Record on Hariyali Teej

By
Dimple Arora
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0

On the auspicious occasion of Hariyali Teej, Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, made a mark on the world map by creating the largest ghevar ever. Known globally for its delectable sweets, Jaipur outdid itself by setting this unique record.

Celebrating Hariyali Teej in Rajasthan

Hariyali Teej is celebrated with great fervor and joy in Rajasthan. Women worship Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, offering ghevar as a sacred treat while praying for the long life and well-being of their husbands. Observed in the month of Sawan, this festival holds special significance for married women who fast and pray for marital bliss and their husbands’ longevity. It symbolizes the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, celebrated with rituals and traditions.

The Journey to a World Record

On this festive occasion, Jaipur’s municipal corporation, Nagar Nigam Greater Jaipur, took a remarkable step by creating the world’s largest ghevar. The preparation for this colossal endeavor started 15 days prior to the festival. Mayor Somya Gurjar of Greater Jaipur ordered the special creation for the Teej festival, setting the wheels in motion for this record-breaking feat.

The team behind this mammoth ghevar faced numerous challenges, primarily constructing a frame large enough to hold it. Despite initial estimates of needing two months for preparation, the determined team worked day and night, crafting an 800-kilogram frying pan essential for the task. The final ghevar measured 7.15 feet in diameter and 10 inches in thickness, a true culinary marvel.

Crafting the Largest Ghevar

The process of making the largest ghevar was a meticulous effort involving 20 skilled craftsmen who toiled for five hours. Using 1,000 kilograms of ghee, they created a ghevar weighing 455 kilograms. This extraordinary achievement not only highlights Jaipur’s renowned sweet-making tradition but also showcases the dedication and expertise of the artisans involved.

A Symbol of Cultural Heritage

This record-breaking ghevar, created during the Hariyali Teej festival, has brought immense pride to Jaipur and Rajasthan. It stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and culinary expertise. The creation of the world’s largest ghevar has not only set a new record but has also drawn attention to the traditional festivals and sweets of Rajasthan.

Summing Up

Jaipur’s remarkable achievement of creating the world’s largest ghevar on Hariyali Teej is a blend of tradition, culture, and culinary excellence. This feat, accomplished with dedication and meticulous effort, has added a new chapter to the city’s illustrious history, celebrating its rich heritage and bringing joy to its residents and admirers worldwide.

Who made Khirki Masjid in Delhi?

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Nestled in the heart of Saket’s dense high-rise housing complexes, Khirki Masjid stands as a remarkable testament to the Tughlaq dynasty’s architectural prowess. Finding this hidden gem amidst the labyrinth of narrow lanes is no small feat—without Google Maps, locating this mosque is nearly impossible. Even the locals seemed unaware of its existence, a testament to how concealed this monumental structure has become.

Khirki Masjid is a stark reminder of the juxtaposition between the old and new in Delhi. Unlike many other archaeological sites plagued by unplanned encroachments, Khirki Masjid is surrounded by towering residential blocks that seem to dwarf this historical fortress-like structure. This unique contrast makes it one of the most intriguing sites in India.

Commissioned by Khan-i-Jahan Malik Juna Shah Tilangani, the mosque was designed during the reign of Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq (1351-1388). Malik Juna Shah, unlike his father, devoted his time to construction, leaving behind a legacy of seven magnificent mosques in Delhi, including Khirki Masjid. The other mosques are Begumpur Mosque, Masjid Kalu Sarai, Kalan Masjid (Hazrat Nizamuddin), Masjid Firoz Shah Kotla, Masjid Wakya (Lahori Gate), and Kalan Masjid (Turkman Gate).

Of these, Khirki Masjid is arguably the most striking. The mosque is set on a 3-meter high raised plinth and is square in plan, measuring 52 meters on each side. It features projecting entrances on the north, east, and south sides, each framed by narrow minarets. The structure is reinforced by massive round towers at each corner. The roof is divided into a grid of 25 squares, 21 of which are covered by nine conical domes, while the remaining four squares are open to the air, creating mini courtyards. This design makes Khirki Masjid the first mosque in India to feature such extensive roofing over its internal space.

The mosque’s name, “Khirki,” meaning “window,” is derived from the grid-patterned windows on its three exterior sides. These windows, twelve on each side, were designed to compensate for the lack of light entering the mosque from above. The current ground level around the mosque is significantly higher than it was in 1370, creating a moat-like appearance due to the buildup of surrounding domestic habitation over centuries.

The site is enclosed by a tall wire fence to prevent further encroachment and unauthorized access.

Inside, the mosque is a geometric marvel, with 180 columns arranged in a regular grid-like plan, creating endless photogenic views. However, photographing the interior proved challenging due to the lack of available light. Despite traveling with a tripod, often leave it behind on days out, as they are frequently not permitted at ASI sites. This visit was an exception, and people generally regret not having tripod to capture the grandeur of the interior adequately.

The darkest areas of the mosque are the bays in front of the prayer wall (mihrab), where roosting bats can often be found. Despite these challenges, the mosque’s interior is awe-inspiring and warrants a longer visit, particularly once the ASI renovations are complete. Visitors should note the steps leading to the roof from the eastern gate, offering a different perspective of the structure.

The ASI’s renovation work at Khirki Masjid has not been without controversy. A mistake in the preparation of lime mortar resulted in a pinkish hue in treated areas. The original method involved burning lime in a kiln, submerging it under water for a month, and then grinding it with sand. The change in ingredients altered the mortar’s properties and increased costs. Following this mistake, renovations were suspended, and the ASI held workshops to educate staff on proper restoration techniques for Mughal monuments.

Khirki Masjid has also made headlines for archaeological discoveries. In 2018, the ASI found a hoard of 254 copper coins in a clay pot near the entrance stairs. The coins dated back to the mid-16th century, with some from the Lodi period, suggesting they may have represented the savings of a family over generations. A similar discovery occurred in 2003, when 63 coins were found during pre-conservation cleaning activities.

The Khirki Masjid experience was a highlight of exploration of less-visited sites in Delhi. This hidden gem, surrounded by urban sprawl, deserves more recognition and public attention. The nearby site of Satpula is also worth visiting, adding to the allure of this historical area.

In summary, Khirki Masjid is a fascinating paradox of past and present, offering a unique glimpse into Delhi’s rich architectural heritage amidst modern urban development.

IndiGo Launches ‘IndiGo Stretch’ Business Class on Key Domestic Routes

By
Dimple Arora
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0

IndiGo, India’s largest airline, is set to launch its new business class service, ‘IndiGo Stretch,’ starting with the popular Delhi-Mumbai route from November 14, with fares beginning at ₹18,018. This announcement, made by IndiGo’s CEO Pieter Elbers during the airline’s 18th anniversary event on August 5, marks a significant shift for the airline traditionally known for its no-frills approach.

Introducing IndiGo Stretch

‘IndiGo Stretch’ will initially be available on the Delhi-Mumbai route, with bookings opening on August 6. By mid-November, the business class service will expand to 12 domestic routes, targeting the busiest and most business-oriented travel corridors. These include select flights from the national capital and routes serving major cities such as Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.

CEO Pieter Elbers highlighted the premium quality of the new business class offering, stating, “It’s going to be a real good business class.” This move underscores IndiGo’s response to the growing demand for premium travel services in India, aiming to capture a share of the business traveler market.

IndiGo BluChip: The New Customer Loyalty Program

In conjunction with the launch of ‘IndiGo Stretch,’ the airline will also introduce a customer loyalty program named ‘IndiGo BluChip.’ This program aims to reward frequent flyers with various benefits, enhancing the overall travel experience and fostering customer loyalty.

Expanding Horizons

IndiGo’s decision to venture into business class services aligns with its broader strategy to cater to a diverse customer base. This initiative places IndiGo in direct competition with other Indian carriers offering business class services, such as Air India, Air India Express, and Vistara, all of which are currently owned by the Tata Group.

Market Dynamics

The introduction of ‘IndiGo Stretch’ is poised to shake up the Indian aviation market, which has seen increasing demand for premium services. Business travelers, in particular, are likely to welcome the addition of more business class options on key domestic routes, enhancing competition and potentially leading to improved services across the board.

Celebrity Criticism of Air India

In related news, the aviation industry recently faced scrutiny when three-time Grammy winner Ricky Kej expressed frustration on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) over his experience with Air India. Kej reported being downgraded from business class without explanation on a flight from Mumbai to Bengaluru and criticized the airline’s staff for their rude behavior. This incident highlights ongoing challenges in the sector and the importance of reliable premium services for maintaining customer satisfaction.

Summing Up

IndiGo’s foray into the business class market with ‘IndiGo Stretch’ represents a bold step forward for the airline. By offering premium services on key domestic routes and launching a new loyalty program, IndiGo aims to enhance its appeal to business travelers and set new standards in the Indian aviation industry. As bookings open on August 6, travelers can look forward to a new era of comfort and service with IndiGo starting this November.

Reservation issue backfires, Bangladesh PM resigns

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned from office and left the country on Monday, as reported by various media outlets. This comes in the wake of intense clashes between protestors and supporters of the ruling Awami League, marking some of the worst violence the South Asian nation has seen in over five decades.

The protests, which began on Sunday morning, were part of a non-cooperation program led by the group Students Against Discrimination. The protestors, who demanded Hasina’s resignation over a controversial job quota system, faced fierce opposition from activists of the ruling Awami League, Chhatra League, and Jubo League.

Escalating Violence and Casualties

The clashes have resulted in a significant loss of life and widespread unrest. According to Bengali-language newspaper Prothom Alo, at least 101 people, including 14 policemen, were killed in the violence on Sunday. The severity of the situation prompted the authorities to cut off mobile internet services and enforce a nationwide curfew for an indefinite period.

Further reports indicate that at least six people were killed during confrontations between police and protestors in the Jatrabari and Dhaka Medical College areas, as covered by The Daily Star newspaper.

Storming of the Prime Minister’s Palace

The unrest reached a critical point when protestors stormed the prime minister’s palace, compelling Hasina to vacate Dhaka and seek refuge in a safe location. Officials confirmed that she left amidst the escalating violence and chaos that gripped the capital city.

Nationwide Protests

The turmoil began when students from various educational institutions gathered at Dhaka Central Shaheed Minar around 10 am on Sunday. They were participating in the ‘March to Dhaka’ program, which quickly turned violent. Police responded with tear gas to disperse the crowd, further intensifying the conflict.

The protests against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina highlight deep-rooted dissatisfaction with her government’s policies and the existing job quota system. The demand for her resignation has been a central point of contention, leading to widespread mobilization of students and other protest groups.

Future Implications

Sheikh Hasina’s resignation marks a significant moment in Bangladesh’s political landscape. The nation now faces a period of uncertainty as it grapples with the aftermath of the violent clashes and the challenges of restoring order and stability.

As Bangladesh moves forward, the international community will be closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a peaceful resolution and a return to stability for the country.

FORHEX is back with Fair 2024 to celebrate Rajasthan’s Handicraft and Textile Excellence

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Since 2009, the FORHEX Fair has proudly established itself as a premier event dedicated to the enrichment of Rajasthan’s handicraft and textile industries. This distinguished trade event serves as a vital platform for artisans, fostering cultural heritage while promoting economic growth in the region.

Held annually in Jaipur, the FORHEX Fair heralds the festive season in India, showcasing the pinnacle of Rajasthan’s craftsmanship. The fair gathers industry-leading brands to present the finest products infused with the region’s rich cultural heritage. More than just a trade event, the FORHEX Fair is a celebration of artistry, craftsmanship, and innovation, drawing a global audience eager to witness the best of what Rajasthan has to offer.

Explore Diverse Categories at FORHEX Fair 2024!

FORHEX Fair 2024 promises a spectacular showcase of craftsmanship across various categories. Attendees can look forward to discovering the finest in:

  • Home Decor: Elevate your living spaces with exquisite decor pieces.
  • Furniture: Find timeless furniture crafted with precision and care.
  • Handicrafts: Experience the intricate beauty of Rajasthan’s traditional handicrafts.
  • Art: Admire stunning artworks that reflect the cultural richness of the region.
  • Lighting: Illuminate your home with unique lighting solutions.
  • Textiles: Explore a variety of high-quality textiles, from traditional to contemporary designs.
  • Floor Coverings: Discover beautiful rugs and carpets that add warmth to any space.
  • Pottery: Marvel at the skillfully crafted pottery pieces, each telling its own story.

Event Details

  • Dates: 9th – 12th August 2024
  • Location: Birla Auditorium, Jaipur

Join Us

Be part of this extraordinary event to experience the best of artistry, craftsmanship, and design. Whether you are an artisan, a business owner, or a visitor, the FORHEX Fair 2024 offers a unique opportunity to connect with the essence of Rajasthan’s cultural heritage.

Book Your Space

Secure your spot now for a revolutionary showcase of your brand at FORHEX Fair 2024. Don’t miss out on this chance to present your products to a discerning audience and engage with potential clients and partners.

  • Federation of Rajasthan Handicraft Exporters
  • Address: 108, Eden Heights, Opp. Laxmi Dharam Kanta, 22 Godam Industrial Area, Jaipur (India)
  • Message: FORHEX to 8700529987 to avail special offers
  • Call: +91 7015080210, +91 9315677186
  • Email: forhex2024@gmail.com
  • Web: www.forhex.org

Also, check out other arts events in Jaipur and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this vibrant city. The FORHEX Fair 2024 awaits you with open arms, ready to showcase the best of Rajasthan’s handicraft and textile industries.

BetBarter: Download App for Online Betting in India

By
Ravindar Nagar
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0

BetBarter is the ultimate destination to meet all the casino and sports betting needs of betting enthusiasts in India. Fortunately, players will now also be able to place their bets with the mobile application of this betting platform, which is currently available for Android devices and is expected to be launched soon for iOS users. With the availability of a dedicated mobile application, players will be able to enjoy a vast range of features which will enhance their betting experience across both casino and sports betting. Those who will be creating a new account via the mobile application will be able to receive 25% cashback up to 10,000 INR on the losses they made within 7 days of their first deposit. The Android users will be able to download the BetBarter apk from the official website for Indian users.

Application Version1.0.4
APK file size27 MB 
Installed App Size 56 MB 
Languages Supported Hindi, English 
Cost of Downloading Free 

BetBarter App

The mobile application of this betting platform provides various betting opportunities to users when it comes to sports and casino betting. Players will be able to enjoy all the features of the official website along with some additional features which will be available to them while using the mobile application of this betting platform. To download the BetBarter apk file, players shall first check whether their Android devices fulfil the system requirements given below:

  • Android Version: Android 4.0 or above.
  • RAM: 1 GB or above.
  • Free Memory Space: 56 MB.
  • Processor: 1 GHz or above.

Players whose Android devices fall above the system requirements will be able to proceed to the download process and download it from the official website. After they have downloaded, players will be able to create their betting account within a few minutes and access their favourite casino games or sports events to place their bets.

Features of BetBarter App for Android

BetBarter: Download App for Online Betting in India

Players who have downloaded the BetBarter apk will be able to enjoy a vast range of features through which their betting experience will be enhanced on their Android devices. Upon downloading this betting application, players will be able to see some interesting features such as:

  1. Live Notifications

Players can enable the betting application to send notifications, which won’t be available to them when it comes to the official website. With the help of the mobile application, players will be able to receive notifications regarding various bonuses and promotions, betting opportunities, favourite sports events, and many others.

  1. Faster Deposits

The deposits which the users will be making to their betting account via the mobile application will be completed quickly as compared to those made via the official website. Users won’t be redirected to the other pages if they have the payment application downloaded on their devices, allowing them to quickly complete the payment and funds being added to their account. They will be able to make deposits via various popular payment methods like VISA, MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, Google Pay, PhonePe, UPI, Paytm, Bank Transfer, Bitcoin, LiteCoin, and many others.

  1. Automatic Login

After downloading the BetBarter apk on their devices and installing the same, players will just have to log in to their betting account once on the mobile application. Now, they will be automatically logged in to their betting account whenever the users open the mobile application on their devices, which saves the login time.

  1. Optimised Functionality

The mobile application of the BetBarter platform is known to function smoother as compared to the official website, as it takes comparatively less loading time when it comes to casino games or sports betting. This is mainly possible as the resources of the games are already downloaded with the help of the application file download process.

  1. Casino Games

All the casino games which are available to the users at the official website of this betting platform will also be available to them while on the mobile application, allowing the casino bettors to access their favourite casino games without any interruptions. Moreover, the casino games which will be available to the users via mobile application include games like Baccarat, Blackjack, Roulette, Slots, Poker, Jackpot Games, Aviator, JetX, and various others. Bettors will also be able to enjoy placing their bets on live casino games, which have real-time dealers and other players at the same table. 

  1. Direct Access to Sportsbook

Bettors have the opportunity to access the sportsbook directly with the help of the BetBarter apk for Android devices. Players will be able to place their bets across sports like Cricket, Football, Basketball, Tennis, Golf, Kabaddi, MMA, and many others, within a few seconds with the help of the mobile application of this betting platform. Along with that, there are various betting markets which will be available to the users in the sportsbook of this mobile application. 

  1. Bonuses and Promotions

There are various bonuses and promotions available to the users who have downloaded the mobile application of this betting platform. Those who will be creating a new account via the mobile application will be eligible to claim the welcome bonus of 25% cashback up to 10,000 INR on the losses they have made within seven days of making their first deposit on the betting application. Some other bonuses available on the mobile application include Battle of Slots, Loyalty Circle, Sports Deposit Bonus, and various others.

  1. Customer Support

To ensure that mobile bettors don’t face any issues while using the BetBarter mobile application to assess their favourite casino games or sports events, customer support of this betting platform will be available all-time. Players will be able to contact customer support at any time regarding the queries they face on the betting application with the help of live chat or email. 

Conclusion

Therefore, the betting application supports all the features which will be available to the users, even on the official website, along with some extra features. Android users will be able to download the BetBarter apk from the official website for Indian users to access their favourite casino games or sports events and get an enhanced betting experience.

Source: https://bet-barter.com.in/

Top 4 Cafes in Bani Park, Jaipur

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Bani Park in Jaipur is home to some of the most delightful cafes, each offering a unique blend of ambiance, food, and beverages. Here are the top four cafes that you must visit:

1. Serai Brews Cafe

Serai Brews Cafe is a boutique cafe situated on the ground floor of the vibrantly decorated property, Vimal Heritage. The cafe is adorned with century-old sculpted stones and pillars sourced from the Marwar region of Rajasthan, creating a seamless blend of modern and historical aesthetics. The walls are decorated with art, and the lush greenery adds a soothing touch to the ambiance. Serai Brews Cafe is known for serving the finest coffee sourced from the best plantations across the country, accompanied by mouth-watering dishes. The combination of exquisite decor and exceptional coffee makes this cafe a must-visit.

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2kZvLXufssZnR4719

Top 4 Cafes in Bani Park, Jaipur

2. Beans & Buns

Beans & Buns Cafe, part of Hotel Anuraag Villa, offers a unique Rajasthani-styled cafe experience. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, reflecting the hospitality of Rajasthan. With both indoor and outdoor seating, the cafe is perfect for gatherings, parties, and events of all kinds. Beans & Buns uses a unique blend of coffee beans sourced from the best suppliers, carefully selected by expert baristas to create the perfect cup of coffee. The menu includes a variety of food items designed to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day, catch up with friends, or celebrate a special occasion, this cafe provides an exceptional experience.

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZRXs9wn6wH3vCz6z5

Top 4 Cafes in Bani Park, Jaipur

3. Mimi Restaurant and Bar

Mimi Restaurant and Bar, a unit of Shree Shakti, is an elevated cocktail bar known for its exotic food menu. Centrally located in the heart of the city, Mimi prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients in its culinary creations. The commitment to sustainability and supporting local farmers is evident in every dish, from farm-fresh vegetables to locally raised meats and artisanal cheeses. The bar’s dedication to showcasing the best of the region’s produce shines through in each meticulously prepared plate. Mimi offers a prime location and a refined dining experience, making it a standout choice in Bani Park.

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iZuRybkpXw8Kh7dE7

Top 4 Cafes in Bani Park, Jaipur

4. The Chai Bagh

The Chai Bagh is a cafe with a youthful vibe, featuring a live kitchen and both indoor and outdoor seating. Started by two brothers who are advocates, the cafe emerged during the lockdown period in their house. It has become a popular spot for socializing with friends. The menu is simple yet satisfying, including items like Maggi, iced teas, and other quick bites. Orders are served promptly within 5-10 minutes, making it a convenient spot for a casual hangout. The Chai Bagh’s relaxed and friendly atmosphere makes it a favorite among youngsters.

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vwAiY1kjxwFx2iZy7

Top 4 Cafes in Bani Park, Jaipur

These cafes in Bani Park, Jaipur, each offer a unique atmosphere and a delightful array of beverages and dishes, making them perfect spots for coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Whether you are looking for a sophisticated dining experience or a cozy place to relax with friends, Bani Park has something for everyone.

Tree Cover Increase Threatens Grassland Bird Populations

By
Dimple Arora
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0

Increasing tree cover is often hailed as a positive step for protecting nature and combating climate change. However, new research indicates that the spread of trees into traditionally open ecosystems like savannahs and grasslands can have detrimental effects on native wildlife, particularly grassland birds. A significant study published in Global Change Biology has found that grassland bird populations in the African savannah have declined by more than 20%.

Understanding Open Ecosystems

Grasslands and savannahs are crucial for biodiversity, covering almost 40% of the Earth’s land surface and supporting a wide array of species, from large herbivores to unique bird species. These ecosystems are increasingly threatened by conversion to agriculture, urban development, and overgrazing. A less obvious but equally serious threat is woody encroachment.

Woody Encroachment Defined

Woody encroachment occurs when trees and shrubs start to invade open areas such as grasslands and savannahs. This process homogenizes the ecosystem, leading to a reduction in plant and animal diversity. As a result, the overall biodiversity of these areas diminishes significantly.

Factors Driving Woody Encroachment

Several factors contribute to woody encroachment:

1. Disruption of Disturbance Regimes

Natural and human activities, such as the suppression of fires and alterations in grazing patterns, facilitate the growth of trees in areas that were previously maintained as open spaces.

2. Climate Change

Increased CO2 levels benefit tree growth more than grass growth, resulting in a gradual conversion of grasslands into woodlands.

3. Consequences for Biodiversity

The shift from open grasslands to tree-covered areas has profound implications for biodiversity:

4. Declining Bird Populations

Bird species that depend on grasslands are experiencing significant declines as their habitats are overtaken by trees.

5. Altered Ecosystem Dynamics

Changes in soil composition and increased predation risks threaten other grassland-dependent animals, such as rodents.

6. Invasive Species and Plantation Effects

Invasive tree species exacerbate woody encroachment. For example, in India, species like Prosopis juliflora have transformed grasslands into dense woodlands, further degrading these habitats.

Mitigating the Effects of Woody Encroachment

To counteract the negative impacts of woody encroachment, it is essential to:

  • Conduct further research to fully understand its effects on biodiversity.
  • Monitor open ecosystems continuously to detect and address changes promptly.
  • Reevaluate and correct the misclassification of these habitats as “wastelands” to ensure they receive appropriate protection.

In conclusion, while increasing tree cover is generally beneficial for the environment, it is crucial to recognize that not all ecosystems benefit from this change. Protecting grasslands and savannahs from woody encroachment is vital for preserving their unique biodiversity and ensuring the survival of species that depend on these open habitats.

Sawan Special, Traditional recipies to Prepare During the Holy Month of Sawan

By
Dimple Arora
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0

The month dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Shravan or Sawan, is going well. This period is marked by several rules and customs that devout Hindus observe. One important aspect of this observance is the dietary restrictions and choices. In this article, we will explore some traditional dishes you can prepare during Sawan.

Sawan is a significant month for Hindus, marked by the worship of Lord Shiva. Devotees adhere to a sattvic diet, abstaining from onions, garlic, meat, and alcohol. Common ingredients include sabudana (tapioca pearls), kuttu (buckwheat), singhara (water chestnut), and rajgira (amaranth). These ingredients are used to make various dishes like rotis, pooris, kadhi, and pakoras. If you are bored with the usual fare, here are some traditional dishes you can try during Sawan.

Banana Fries

Raw bananas are a versatile ingredient often used during fasts. While many make a curry, you can try banana fries for a tasty snack. To make them more delicious, prepare a thin batter using kuttu or singhara flour with salt and water. Marinate the banana slices in this batter and deep-fry them. These banana fries make a perfect tea-time snack.

Sawan Special, Traditional recipies to Prepare During the Holy Month of Sawan

Sabudana Uttapam

Sabudana uttapam is a traditional South Indian dish that is both healthy and delicious. You can prepare the batter using sabudana flour. If you don’t prefer sabudana, you can use another flour. Top the uttapam with sweet potato filling for an extra touch of flavor and enjoy.

Sawan Special, Traditional recipies to Prepare During the Holy Month of Sawan

Samak Atta Lapsi

Lapsi is a traditional dessert popular in Rajasthan, Haryana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of Uttar Pradesh. It’s perfect for the rainy season. Prepare lapsi using samak atta (barnyard millet flour) and add plenty of dry fruits for a rich taste. Roast the flour in ghee, add dry fruits, sugar, and milk, and cook for 5-7 minutes. Your delicious vrat-friendly lapsi is ready.

Sawan Special, Traditional recipies to Prepare During the Holy Month of Sawan

Khamang Kakdi

Tired of eating sweet potato salads or snacks? Try Khamang Kakdi, a special Maharashtrian and Gujarati salad. Made with cucumber, coconut, peanuts, lemon, and rock salt, this dish is both healthy and appetizing. Finely chop the cucumber, sprinkle salt, and set it aside. Coarsely grind the peanuts, and mix with green chilies and sugar for a refreshing salad.

Sawan Special, Traditional recipies to Prepare During the Holy Month of Sawan

Sweet Potato Bhaji

Known as Ratali Bhaji in Marathi, this dish is a great accompaniment to kuttu pooris or as a snack on its own. Finely chop the sweet potatoes, heat ghee in a pan, add cumin seeds, and sauté the sweet potatoes for 2-5 minutes. Add rock salt and coarsely ground peanuts, and garnish with fresh coriander.

Sawan Special, Traditional recipies to Prepare During the Holy Month of Sawan

Panifolar Palo

This Bengali dessert, often forgotten, is a delightful option for Sawan. Made with singhara flour, it can also be offered as prasad. Heat ghee in a pan, roast the flour for 2-3 minutes, and then add milk and sugar. Mix in a pinch of cardamom powder, and once the halwa is ready, transfer it to a greased pan. Top with finely chopped pistachios and let it set. Cut into pieces and serve.

Sawan Special, Traditional recipies to Prepare During the Holy Month of Sawan

These are just a few of the many traditional dishes you can prepare during the month of Sawan. We hope this article inspires you to try something new and delicious.

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