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Nature Safari Rajgir: A Wildlife and Adventure Destination in Bihar

By
Ravindar Nagar
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0

If you are looking for a place to enjoy nature, wildlife, and adventure in Bihar, then you should definitely visit Nature Safari Rajgir. This is a new attraction that was inaugurated in March 2020 by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. It is located in Rajgir, a historical town that is famous for its association with Lord Buddha, Mahavira, and King Bimbisara.

Nature Safari Rajgir is a safari park that covers an area of 500 acres along the Budh Marg. It offers various facilities and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the highlights of Nature Safari Rajgir that you should not miss:

Glass Skywalk

One of the most thrilling features of Nature Safari Rajgir is the glass skywalk, which is the second of its kind in India after Laxman Jhoola in Rishikesh. It is also the first sky-hanging rope walk in India. The glass skywalk is a 300-meter-long bridge that hangs at a height of 80 feet above the ground. It offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills, forests, and valleys. You can walk on the transparent glass floor and feel the adrenaline rush as you see the depth below you. The glass skywalk can accommodate up to 40 people at a time and has safety railings and harnesses for security.

Suspension Bridge

Another exciting attraction of Nature Safari Rajgir is the suspension bridge, which is a 200-meter-long bridge that connects two hills. It is made of steel cables and wooden planks and sways gently as you walk on it. The suspension bridge offers a scenic view of the Rajgir reservoir and the wildlife sanctuary. You can also spot some birds and animals from the bridge, such as peacocks, deer, monkeys, etc.

Children Play Area

Nature Safari Rajgir also has a children play area where kids can have fun and learn about nature. The play area has various swings, slides, seesaws, climbing nets, etc. It also has a mini zoo where kids can see some domestic animals such as cows, goats, rabbits, etc. The play area is surrounded by greenery and flowers and has benches and gazebos for resting.

Zipline/Flying Fox

If you are looking for some adventure, then you should try the zipline or flying fox at Nature Safari Rajgir. This is a 400-meter-long zipline that runs from one hill to another at a speed of up to 60 kmph. You can enjoy the thrill of flying over the trees and water while wearing a safety harness and helmet. The zipline can accommodate two people at a time and has trained instructors to guide you.

Zip/Sky Bike

Another adventurous activity that you can try at Nature Safari Rajgir is the zip or sky bike. This is a bike that runs on a cable suspended between two hills at a height of 50 feet. You can pedal the bike and enjoy the view of the nature and wildlife below you. The zip or sky bike can accommodate one person at a time and has safety belts and helmets for protection.

Rifle Shooting & Archery

If you want to test your skills and accuracy, then you can try rifle shooting and archery at Nature Safari Rajgir. These are two sports that require concentration, precision, and patience. You can use air rifles or bows and arrows to hit the targets at different distances. You can also compete with your friends or family members and see who scores more points.

Battery Vehicle & Cycle

If you want to explore Nature Safari Rajgir at your own pace, then you can rent a battery vehicle or cycle from the entrance gate. These are eco-friendly vehicles that run on batteries or pedals and do not cause any noise or pollution. You can drive or ride these vehicles along the designated paths and see the various attractions of Nature Safari Rajgir. You can also stop at any point and take pictures or enjoy the scenery.

Parks & Gardens

Nature Safari Rajgir also has several parks and gardens where you can relax and rejuvenate yourself. These include:

  • Butterfly Park: This is a park where you can see various species of butterflies flying around colorful flowers and plants. You can also learn about their life cycle and behavior from the information boards.
  • Medicinal Plant Garden: This is a garden where you can see various medicinal plants that have healing properties for various ailments. You can also learn about their names, uses, and benefits from the information boards.
  • Bamboo Park: This is a park where you can see various types of bamboo plants that are used for various purposes such as furniture, handicrafts, paper, etc. You can also learn about their cultivation and conservation from the information boards.
  • Cactus Garden: This is a garden where you can see various types of cactus plants that are adapted to survive in dry and harsh conditions. You can also learn about their names, shapes, and features from the information boards.

Nature Safari Rajgir is a perfect destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. It is a place where you can enjoy the beauty and diversity of nature and have fun and excitement at the same time. It is also a place where you can learn about the history and culture of Rajgir and Bihar. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets online and visit Nature Safari Rajgir soon!

Post Office Launches Mahila Samman Savings Certificate for Women Investors

By
Ravindar Nagar
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0

The post office has launched a new small savings scheme for women investors called Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC). The scheme was announced in the Budget 2023 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to commemorate Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and to encourage women to save and invest for their financial goals.

Features of MSSC

MSSC is a one-time deposit scheme that offers the following features:

  • The scheme is available for a two-year period up to March 2025.
  • The scheme offers a fixed interest rate of 7.5% per annum, which is higher than most bank fixed deposits.
  • The scheme allows partial withdrawal option after six months of opening the account.
  • The scheme has a minimum deposit limit of Rs. 500 and a maximum deposit limit of Rs. 2 lakh.
  • The scheme can be opened by any woman or girl in her own name or by a guardian on behalf of a minor girl or a woman of unsound mind.
  • The scheme can be opened at any post office or any registered bank with KYC documents such as PAN card, Aadhaar card, passport, etc.
  • The scheme provides nomination facility at the time of opening the account.

Benefits of MSSC

MSSC is a beneficial scheme for women investors as it offers the following benefits:

  • The scheme provides a safe and secure investment option as it is backed by the government.
  • The scheme provides a high and guaranteed return on investment as compared to other savings instruments.
  • The scheme provides liquidity and flexibility as it allows partial withdrawal in case of any emergency or financial need.
  • The scheme provides tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, up to Rs. 1.5 lakh per annum.
  • The scheme empowers women to take charge of their financial well-being and achieve their aspirations.

Comparison with Other Schemes

MSSC is a unique scheme that caters to the specific needs and preferences of women investors. It is different from other post office schemes such as Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), Postal Life Insurance (PLI), etc. in the following ways:

  • MSSC is a one-time deposit scheme, whereas SSY is a recurring deposit scheme that requires annual deposits for 15 years.
  • MSSC has a shorter tenure of two years, whereas SSY has a longer tenure of 21 years or until the girl child gets married after attaining 18 years of age, whichever is earlier.
  • MSSC has a higher interest rate of 7.5%, whereas SSY has a lower interest rate of 7.1% (as of January-March 2023).
  • MSSC has a higher maximum deposit limit of Rs. 2 lakh, whereas SSY has a lower maximum deposit limit of Rs. 1.5 lakh per annum.
  • MSSC can be opened by any woman or girl, whereas SSY can be opened only by the parents or legal guardians of a girl child below 10 years of age.
  • MSSC can be opened at any post office or registered bank, whereas SSY can be opened only at designated post offices or authorized banks.
  • MSSC is a savings scheme, whereas PLI is an insurance scheme that provides life cover along with savings.
  • MSSC does not require any medical examination or proof of income, whereas PLI requires both for eligibility and premium calculation.
  • MSSC does not have any age limit, whereas PLI has an age limit of 18 to 55 years for eligibility.

MSSC is a new and attractive post office scheme for women investors that offers high returns, liquidity, flexibility, safety, security, and tax benefits. It is a suitable scheme for women who want to save and invest for their short-term and long-term financial goals.

Janmashtami 2023: Celebrating the Birth of Lord Krishna

By
Ravindar Nagar
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0

Janmashtami is a grand festival celebrated all over India to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. According to the Hindu calendar, Janmashtami falls on the Ashtami of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapad (the dark fortnight of the moon) or the 8th day of the waning phase of the moon. In accordance with Vedic timekeeping, devotees take Sankalpa after finishing morning rituals and perform Krishna Puja at the midnight hour. Baby Krishan’s idol is cleaned with Pancha Amrit, dressed with new clothes and ornaments, and worshipped in a cradle with flowers, fruits, and sweets. Furthermore, Dahi Handi programs are held since Lord Krishna enjoyed Makhan (white butter), curd, and milk.

Janmashtami 2023 Date

Janmashtami is celebrated in August or September according to the Gregorian calendar. Every year, Shri Krishna Janmashtami falls on a different date. There are usually two consecutive days devoted to Janmashtami. The first one is for Smarta Sampradaya and the other one is for Vaishnava Sampradaya.

This year, Janmashtami will be celebrated on September 6 and 7¹. The table below shows the details of the date and time for both sampradayas:

SampradayaDateTime
SmartaSeptember 6Nishita Puja Time: 00:01 to 00:45
VaishnavaSeptember 7Nishita Puja Time: 00:01 to 00:45

Janmashtami Significance

Janmashtami is one of the most important festivals for Hindus as it marks the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, who is considered to be the supreme personality of Godhead. Lord Krishna was born in Mathura at midnight in a prison cell where his parents Vasudeva and Devaki were imprisoned by his evil uncle Kansa. He was miraculously transferred to Gokul by his father where he was raised by his foster parents Nanda and Yashoda. He grew up as a mischievous and playful child who charmed everyone with his divine qualities. He also performed many miracles and killed many demons who threatened the peace and harmony of the world. He later became a great warrior, statesman, philosopher, and teacher who imparted the timeless wisdom of Bhagavad Gita to his friend and disciple Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.

Janmashtami is celebrated to remember and honor the life and teachings of Lord Krishna, who is revered as the embodiment of love, compassion, joy, and justice. He is also worshipped as the protector of dharma (righteousness) and the destroyer of adharma (evil). He is believed to be present in every living being as the indwelling soul or Atman. By chanting his names, singing his glories, listening to his stories, and meditating on his form, devotees seek his blessings and grace for their spiritual progress and material well-being.

Janmashtami Celebrations

Janmashtami is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion across India with various regional and cultural variations. Some of the common ways of celebrating Janmashtami are:

  • Fasting: Many devotees observe a strict fast on Janmashtami until midnight when Lord Krishna was born. They break their fast by offering prasad (sacred food) to the deity and then distributing it among themselves.
  • Puja: Devotees perform puja (ritual worship) at home or in temples by offering flowers, incense, lamps, fruits, sweets, and other items to Lord Krishna. They also recite mantras, hymns, and prayers from scriptures such as Vishnu Sahasranama, Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, etc.
  • Bhajan: Devotees sing bhajans (devotional songs) in praise of Lord Krishna throughout the day and night. They also dance in ecstasy to express their love and joy for him. Some of the popular bhajans are Hare Krishna Mahamantra, Govinda Jaya Jaya, Jai Radha Madhav, etc.
  • Jhulan: Devotees decorate a swing or jhulan with flowers and place an idol or picture of baby Krishna on it. They then rock him gently while singing lullabies or rocking songs such as Maiya Mori Main Nahin Makhan Khayo, Nand Ke Anand Bhayo, etc.
  • Dahi Handi: This is a fun-filled event where young men form a human pyramid and try to break a clay pot filled with curd or butter that is hung high from a rope. This is done to imitate the childhood prank of Lord Krishna who used to steal butter from the houses of the cowherds in Gokul. The participants are called Govindas and the spectators cheer them with slogans such as Ala Re Ala, Govinda Ala, etc.
  • Rasa Lila: This is a theatrical performance that depicts the divine love story of Lord Krishna and his consort Radha and their companions, the gopis (cowherd girls). The actors wear colorful costumes and jewelry and enact various episodes from their lives such as their meeting, separation, reunion, etc. The dance and music are based on the classical styles of Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, etc.

Janmashtami is a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, who is the source of all joy and happiness for his devotees. By participating in the festivities, one can experience his presence and grace in one’s life.

Woman Gives Birth to a Snake in India: A Hoax or a Miracle?

By
Ravindar Nagar
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0
Image: Snake birth image

A shocking news story has been circulating on social media, claiming that a woman in India has given birth to a snake. The story, which has been shared by thousands of users, shows a picture of a woman holding a snake-like creature wrapped in a cloth. The story also claims that the woman had a normal pregnancy and delivered the snake at a hospital.

But is this story true or just another hoax? Here is what we found out.

The Origin of the Story

The story of the woman giving birth to a snake seems to have originated from a Facebook page called “Swazi Shado”, which posted the story on July 18, 2011. The page, which has over 14,000 followers, claims to be “a platform for Swazi people to share their stories and opinions”.

The post, which was written in Swazi language, said that the woman was from Manzini, a city in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), and that she gave birth to a seven-headed snake. The post also said that the woman was an ex-devil worshipper and that her husband was a police officer.

The post showed four pictures: one of the woman holding the snake, one of the snake’s head, one of the hospital where the delivery took place, and one of the woman’s husband.

The post received over 1,000 reactions, 500 comments and 300 shares. Many users expressed shock, disbelief and curiosity about the story. Some users also questioned the authenticity of the story and the pictures.

The Truth Behind the Story

After doing some research, we found out that the story of the woman giving birth to a snake is a hoax. Here are some reasons why:

  • The picture of the woman holding the snake is actually from a report by Bombo Radyo Koronadal, a radio station in Philippines, which revealed that a 37-year-old married woman from Koronadal City has apparently given birth to a 2-foot long snake on February 16, 2016¹. The report said that the woman had an abortion at home and then went to the hospital with abdominal pain. The doctors found out that she had delivered a snake-like creature, which they suspected to be an abnormal fetus. The report also said that the woman had no history of devil worship or witchcraft.
  • The picture of the snake’s head is actually from an article by CNN, which reported that a woman in India died from a snakebite, but the real killer was her husband². The article said that the husband had bought two cobras online and used them to kill his wife in order to claim her dowry and insurance money. The article showed a picture of one of the cobras seized by the police.
  • The picture of the hospital where the delivery took place is actually from an article by News18, which reported that a woman in India gave birth to twins with fused skulls³. The article said that the twins were born at KIMS Hospital in Hyderabad on June 30, 2023. The article showed a picture of the hospital’s entrance.
  • The picture of the woman’s husband is actually from an article by India TV News, which reported that an Indian police officer was arrested for raping and killing his colleague’s wife⁴. The article said that the officer was identified as Rajesh Kumar Singh and that he committed the crime on June 29, 2023. The article showed a picture of Singh being taken away by the police.

Conclusion

The story of the woman giving birth to a snake in India is a hoax. It is based on false and misleading information and pictures. It is likely that someone created this story by using different sources and editing them together. There is no evidence or credible source to support this story.

Therefore, we advise our readers not to believe or share this story without verifying its authenticity.

¹: Case of abortion? The truth behind the woman who gave birth to a snake revealed
²: This Indian woman died from a snakebite. But the real killer was her husband
³: Ahead Of Insidious: The Red Door A Look At Horror Movies That Drew Attention At The Box Office In 2023
⁴: Insidious: The Red Door to release in India on THIS date

Insidious: The Red Door to Scare Indian Audiences a Day Before US Release

By
Ravindar Nagar
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0

The horror franchise Insidious is back with its fifth and final chapter, Insidious: The Red Door, which promises to deliver a spine-chilling conclusion to the haunting saga of the Lambert family. The film, directed by Patrick Wilson, who also reprises his role as Josh Lambert, will be released in India on July 6, 2023, a day before its US release.

The film is a direct sequel to the original Insidious film and brings back the original cast, including Rose Byrne as Renai Lambert, Ty Simpkins as Dalton Lambert, and Andrew Astor as Foster Lambert. The film also features Sinclair Daniel and Hiam Abbass in new roles.

The story follows Josh and Dalton, who must go deeper into The Further, the realm of spirits and demons, to face their family’s dark past and a host of new and more horrifying terrors that lurk behind the red door. The film also teases the return of the iconic Lipstick-Face Demon, the primary nemesis of the series.

Insidious: The Red Door is produced by Jason Blum, Oren Peli, James Wan, and Leigh Whannell, who created the franchise. The screenplay is written by Scott Teems. The film is expected to be a thrilling and terrifying ride for horror fans, who have been waiting for the final chapter of the Lambert family’s ordeal.

The film will be released in India in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu languages. You can watch the final trailer of the film here:

INSIDIOUS: THE RED DOOR – Final Trailer (HD)

8 Largest Railway Stations in India 2023

By
Ravindar Nagar
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0
Photo: Howrah Junction

India has one of the largest and busiest railway networks in the world, with over 7,200 stations and more than 25 crore passengers travelling each day. The Indian railway network covers a distance of 66,687 km and connects various parts of the country with different types of trains. To manage this huge volume of traffic and passengers, India has some of the largest and most impressive railway stations in the world.

In this article, we will introduce you to the top 10 largest railway stations in India by various criteria, such as the number of platforms, the length of platforms, the size and height of the architectural structure and design, the crowd, and the junction or number of emerging railway routes. These are the railway stations that you can visit during your travel and witness their grandeur and glory.

1. Howrah Junction Railway Station

Howrah Junction Railway Station, located in the Howrah division of Kolkata, is the largest railway station in India and ranks first among the top 10 biggest railway stations. It has 23 platforms and 26 tracks, making it the station with the highest number of platforms in India. It also has the longest platform in India, measuring 1,023 meters.

Howrah Junction Railway Station is the oldest railway station in India, opening in 1854. It is also one of the busiest railway stations in India, serving more than a million passengers and 670 trains daily. It connects Kolkata with various parts of India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, etc. It also has a terminal for the Kolkata Metro.

Howrah Junction Railway Station is a heritage site and an architectural marvel. It has a Gothic-style building with red bricks and stone carvings. It also has a clock tower that stands at 82 meters high.

Location: Lower Foreshore Road, Howrah, West Bengal
Zone: Eastern Railway Zone
Lines: Howrah-Delhi Line, Howrah-Mumbai Line

2. Sealdah Railway Station

Sealdah Railway Station is another major railway station in Kolkata that ranks second among the top 10 biggest railway stations in India. It has 20 platforms and 29 tracks, making it one of the largest stations by area and capacity. It also has one of the longest platforms in India, measuring 900 meters.

Sealdah Railway Station is one of the oldest railway stations in India, opening in 1869. It is also one of the busiest railway stations in India, serving more than 1.8 million passengers daily. It connects Kolkata with various parts of West Bengal, such as North Bengal, South Bengal,
and Sundarbans. It also has a terminal for the Kolkata Metro.

Sealdah Railway Station is a modern and well-equipped station that has various facilities and amenities for passengers. It has escalators, elevators, foot overbridges, waiting rooms, cloak rooms, book stalls, food stalls, etc.

Location: Sealdah, Kolkata, West Bengal
Zone: Eastern Railway Zone
Station Code: SDAH

3. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) Mumbai is a world UNESCO heritage site and one of the most iconic railway stations in India. It ranks third among the top 10 biggest railway stations in India by size and height. It has 18 platforms and 7 lines,
serving both suburban and long-distance trains.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) Mumbai is one of the oldest railway stations in India,
opening in 1887.
It is also one of the busiest railway stations in India,
serving more than 3 million passengers daily.
It connects Mumbai with various parts of India,
such as Delhi,
Chennai,
Hyderabad,
Bangalore,
etc.
It also has a terminal for the Mumbai Metro.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) Mumbai is a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture that blends Indian and Western elements. It has a majestic stone facade with turrets,
domes,
arches,
statues,
and stained glass windows.
It also has a central dome that stands at 85 meters high.

Location: Fort,
Mumbai,
Maharashtra
Zone: Central Railway Zone
Line: Mumbai-Nagpur-Howrah Line,
Mumbai-Chennai Line

4. Chennai Central Railway Station

Chennai Central Railway Station is one of the most important railway hubs in South India and ranks fourth among the top 10 biggest railway stations in India by size and design. It has 15 platforms and 11 lines,
serving both suburban and long-distance trains.

Chennai Central Railway Station is one of the oldest railway stations in India,
opening in 1873.
It is also one of the busiest railway stations in India,
serving more than 5 lakh passengers daily.
It connects Chennai with various parts of India,
such as Delhi,
Mumbai,
Kolkata,
Hyderabad,
Bangalore,
etc.
It also has a terminal for the Chennai Metro.

Chennai Central Railway Station is a landmark of Chennai and an architectural wonder. It has a colonial-style building with red bricks and white stones. It also has a clock tower that stands at 49 meters high.

Location: Park Town, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Zone: Southern Railway Zone
Line: Chennai-Delhi Line, Chennai-Mumbai Line

5. New Delhi Railway Station

New Delhi Railway Station is the main railway station of the capital city of India and ranks fifth among the top 10 biggest railway stations in India by crowd and revenue. It has 16 platforms and 18 lines, serving both suburban and long-distance trains.

New Delhi Railway Station is one of the busiest railway stations in India, serving more than 5 lakh passengers daily. It connects Delhi with various parts of India, such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, etc. It also has a terminal for the Delhi Metro.

New Delhi Railway Station is a modern and well-maintained station that has various facilities and amenities for passengers. It has escalators, elevators, foot overbridges, waiting rooms, cloak rooms, book stalls, food stalls, etc.

Location: New Delhi, India
Zone: Northern Railway Zone
Station Code: NDLS

6. Allahabad Junction

Allahabad Junction is one of the major railway junctions in North India and ranks sixth among the top 10 biggest railway stations in India by junction or number of emerging railway routes. It has 10 platforms and 12 lines, serving both suburban and long-distance trains.

Allahabad Junction is one of the oldest railway stations in India, opening in 1865. It is also one of the busiest railway stations in India, serving more than 3 lakh passengers daily. It connects Allahabad with various parts of India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, etc.

Allahabad Junction is a historic and important station that has witnessed many events and movements in Indian history. It has a simple and functional building with red bricks and white stones. It also has a clock tower that stands at 40 meters high.

Location: Civil Lines, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh
Zone: North Central Railway Zone
Station Code: ALD

7. Kanpur Central Station

Kanpur Central Station is one of the busiest railway stations in North India and ranks seventh among the top 10 biggest railway stations in India by crowd and capacity. It has 10 platforms and 14 lines, serving both suburban and long-distance trains.

Kanpur Central Station is one of the oldest railway stations in India, opening in 1860. It is also one of the busiest railway stations in India, serving more than 3 lakh passengers daily. It connects Kanpur with various parts of India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai,
Hyderabad,
Bangalore,
etc.

Kanpur Central Station is a prominent and well-organized station that has various facilities and amenities for passengers. It has escalators,
elevators,
foot overbridges,
waiting rooms,
cloak rooms,
book stalls,
food stalls,
etc.

Location: Kanpur Central Railway Station Road,
Kanpur,
Uttar Pradesh
Zone: North Central Railway Zone
Station Code: CNB

8. Gorakhpur Junction

Gorakhpur Junction is one of the largest railway junctions in North India and ranks eighth among the top 10 biggest railway stations in India by length of platform. It has 10 platforms and 12 lines,
serving both suburban and long-distance trains.

Gorakhpur Junction is one of the oldest railway stations in India,
opening in 1881.
It is also one of the busiest railway stations in India,
serving more than 2 lakh passengers daily.
It connects Gorakhpur with various parts of India,
such as Delhi,
Mumbai,
Kolkata,
Chennai,
Hyderabad,
Bangalore,
etc.

Gorakhpur Junction is famous for having the longest platform in the world,
measuring 1,366 meters.
It also has a simple and functional building with red bricks and white stones.

Location: Gorakhpur Cantt.,
Gorakhpur,
Uttar Pradesh
Zone: North Eastern Railway Zone
Station Code: GKP

A Symbolic Union: Mayor of San Pedro Huamelula Marries Caiman for Cultural Harmony and Prosperity

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In an extraordinary display of love and cultural significance, Victor Hugo Sosa, the Mayor of San Pedro Huamelula in southern Mexico, recently tied the knot with a caiman named Alicia Adriana. This unconventional union took place on June 30, 2023, in a traditional ceremony that showcased the town’s unique devotion to its indigenous roots and beliefs.

The decision to marry a caiman stemmed from Sosa’s disillusionment with the dating scene following a difficult breakup. Seeking a deeper connection and a stroke of good fortune, he turned to the centuries-old tradition of marrying a caiman, which has been practiced in San Pedro Huamelula for over 230 years.

The ceremony itself was a reenactment of an ancestral ritual that held deep historical significance for the Chontal and Huave Indigenous groups. These two communities had a longstanding rivalry, but through the symbolic marriage of a man to a female caiman, they were able to reconcile their differences and foster unity.

According to local legend, the man represents the Chontal king, while the caiman embodies a Huave princess girl. This symbolic union is believed to establish a connection with the earth and the powerful forces of nature. It is thought to bring blessings of rain, fertility, and overall well-being to the Chontal community, ensuring luck and prosperity for the town.

During the ceremony, Mayor Sosa expressed his love for Alicia Adriana, emphasizing the importance of love in any marriage. The celebrations included various symbolic gestures, such as Adriana wearing a green skirt, tunic, and headdress to represent her cultural significance. Later, she changed into a white dress and veil, signifying the union.

To ensure safety, precautions were taken, and Adriana’s mouth was bound, acknowledging her status as a reptile with sharp teeth. The caiman was paraded around the community, allowing locals to dance with and hold her, further reinforcing the unity between humans and nature. Finally, the wedding ceremony took place at the town hall, where Mayor Sosa proudly carried Adriana through the streets, accompanied by traditional music and joyful celebrations.

This unique and culturally rich ceremony exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of different cultures within San Pedro Huamelula. By honoring their ancestral traditions and beliefs, the town celebrates the union of two cultures and fosters a sense of unity and prosperity. The event serves as a reminder of the power of love, respect for nature, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Gustav Klimt’s Last Portrait Painted, “Lady With A Fan,” Achieves Record-Breaking Sale of £85.3 Million at London Auction

By
Dimple Arora
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0

In a remarkable auction event held at Sotheby’s in London, the last portrait painted by the renowned artist Gustav Klimt before his untimely death in 1918 has fetched an astonishing price of £85.3 million ($108.4 million). This historic sale has set a new record for the highest price ever achieved for an artwork sold at auction in Europe.

The masterpiece, titled “Lady With A Fan” or “Dame Mit Facher,” captivated art enthusiasts and collectors alike, leading to a 10-minute bidding war that culminated in a final hammer price of £74 million ($94.35 million). The overall sale price, including the buyer’s premium, surpassed the initial estimate of £65 million ($80 million), highlighting the immense demand and appreciation for Klimt’s work.

“Lady With A Fan” portrays an unidentified woman standing against a backdrop adorned with dragons and lotus blossoms. The painting is a testament to Klimt’s artistic genius, showcasing his signature style and his ability to evoke a sense of intrigue and allure through his brushstrokes. The rich expressive technique employed in this artwork, influenced by Chinese motifs and Japanese woodblock patterns, adds to its visual appeal and timeless beauty.

The previous record for the highest auction sale in Europe was held by Alberto Giacometti’s bronze statue, “Walking Man I,” which fetched £82 million ($104.3 million) in 2010. With the sale of “Lady With A Fan,” Gustav Klimt has now claimed this prestigious title, solidifying his position as one of the most celebrated artists in history.

Helena Newman, the auctioneer and chairman of Sotheby’s Europe, expressed her admiration for Klimt’s artistic prowess and the overwhelming response to the painting. She described “Lady With A Fan” as a work that captured the imagination of everyone who saw it, and she was honored to witness such enthusiasm and fierce bidding in London. Bringing down the hammer on this exceptional artwork marked a moment of great significance in auction history.

The buyer of this remarkable piece, hailing from Hong Kong, secured the artwork after a spirited competition among four passionate art lovers. The fact that “Lady With A Fan” has found its home in the hands of an avid collector reflects the global appeal and universal admiration for Klimt’s masterpieces.

Gustav Klimt, an Austrian artist recognized for his contribution to the Art Nouveau movement, left an indelible mark on the art world with his unique style and visionary approach. He is best known for his iconic painting, “The Kiss,” which depicts two lovers entwined in an embrace. The recent sale of “Lady With A Fan” serves as a reminder of Klimt’s artistic legacy and his ability to captivate viewers with his exceptional talent.

Throughout his career, Klimt’s artistic journey witnessed various phases, but it was during his Golden Phase, from the late 1890s to 1909, that he reached the pinnacle of his creativity. Influenced by Byzantine art during a visit to Ravenna, Italy, Klimt began incorporating gold leaf and intricate ornamentation in his works. Masterpieces like “The Kiss,” “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I,” and “Judith and the Head of Holofernes” emerged during this period, mesmerizing audiences with their opulence and symbolism.

Beyond his own artistic achievements, Gustav Klimt’s influence extended to future generations of artists. He mentored notable figures such as Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka,

 and his innovative murals advocating for the integration of art and architecture inspired movements like the Bauhaus and the Russian Constructivists.

Despite his fame and recognition, Klimt remained a private individual, preferring not to discuss his personal life or work extensively. He saw himself simply as a painter committed to his craft, devoting countless hours each day to his art. Born in 1862 in Vienna, Klimt discovered his passion for painting at a young age and honed his skills at the prestigious Viennese School of Arts and Crafts. His talent and dedication, combined with his exploration of human forms and his fascination with the female figure, propelled him to the forefront of the Viennese avant-garde movement.

Gustav Klimt’s art, while revered for its beauty and allure, was not without controversy. He faced criticism for his erotic portrayals of women, which some deemed misogynistic. His University of Vienna ceiling paintings in the early 1900s, featuring sensual female nudes, sparked public outrage and accusations of obscenity. Consequently, Klimt chose to forgo future public commissions, continuing his artistic pursuits outside the confines of traditional expectations.

The recent sale of Klimt’s final portrait, “Lady With A Fan,” stands as a testament to the enduring appeal and value of his artwork. It celebrates the legacy of a visionary artist who challenged conventions and left an indelible mark on the art world. As this masterpiece finds its place in art history, Gustav Klimt’s contributions to the decorative arts and his exploration of human sensuality will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.

Best 10 Facebook Video Downloader Tools in 2023

By
Ravindar Nagar
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0

Facebook is one of the most popular social media platforms where you can find various types of viral videos like comedy, fun, emotional, and much more. Some Facebook pages upload unique videos on their page that you might want to save or download to your device. However, the Facebook site does not allow you to do that directly.

Fortunately, there are various tools available online to download Facebook videos easily and quickly. In this article, we will introduce you to the best 10 Facebook video downloader tools that you can use in 2023. These tools are compatible with different devices and operating systems, and support various file formats and quality options.

1. SnapDownloader

SnapDownloader is a powerful and reliable video downloader tool that allows you to download videos from Facebook, YouTube, and over 900 other websites. It supports up to 8K resolution and can download videos in MP4, AVI, MOV, MP3, and WMV formats. You can also download entire playlists, channels, VR videos, and subtitles with SnapDownloader.

SnapDownloader has a simple and intuitive interface that lets you download videos with just a few clicks. You can also use the built-in video trimmer to cut any part of the video before downloading it. SnapDownloader is available for Windows and Mac devices and offers a free trial version.

2. By Click Downloader

By Click Downloader is another popular Facebook video downloader tool that offers a fast and easy way to download videos from Facebook, YouTube, Vimeo, Instagram, TikTok, and many other sites. It supports MP4, MKV, FLV, 3GP, MP3, and other formats and allows you to download videos in HD, 4K, and 8K quality.

By Click Downloader has a smart detection feature that recognizes when you watch a video on your browser and offers you to download it with a single click. You can also download private videos, live videos, playlists, channels, and subtitles with By Click Downloader. It also has a built-in video converter and editor that lets you customize your videos as you like. By Click Downloader is compatible with Windows devices and has a free version with some limitations.

3. 4K Video Downloader

4K Video Downloader is a versatile and user-friendly video downloader tool that can download videos from Facebook, YouTube, Vimeo, TikTok, SoundCloud, Flickr, Instagram, Dailymotion, and more. It supports various file formats like MP4, MKV, FLV, 3GP, MP3, M4A, OGG, etc. and allows you to download videos in HD, Full HD, 4K, or 8K quality.

4K Video Downloader can also download 3D and 360-degree videos as well as subtitles and annotations. You can also download multiple videos at once or set up automatic downloads for new videos from your favorite channels or playlists. 4K Video Downloader works on Windows, Mac,
and Ubuntu devices and has a free version with some restrictions.

4. Allavsoft

Allavsoft is a professional and comprehensive video downloader tool that can download videos from Facebook, YouTube,
Netflix,
Hulu,
Spotify,
Vimeo,
and over 1000 other sites. It supports various file formats like MP4,
AVI,
MOV,
WMV,
MP3,
WAV,
FLAC,
etc.
and allows you to download videos in HD,
Full HD,
or 4K quality.

Allavsoft can also download multiple videos at once or resume broken downloads. You can also use the built-in video converter and editor to convert or edit your videos according to your needs. Allavsoft is compatible with Windows and Mac devices and offers a free trial version.

5. FBdown.net

FBdown.net is a simple and easy-to-use online tool that lets you download Facebook videos for free. You don’t need to install any software or register an account to use this tool. All you need is the URL of the video you want to download and paste it into the field on the website.

FBdown.net will then generate the download links for the video in MP4 format in SD or HD quality. You can also use FBdown.net to download private videos from Facebook by following the instructions on the website. FBdown.net also has a Chrome extension that makes it easier to download videos from your browser.

6. GetfVid

GetfVid is another online tool that allows you to download Facebook videos for free without any hassle. You just need to copy
and paste the URL of the video into the field on the website
and click on the “Download” button.

GetfVid will then provide you with the download links for the video in MP4 format in SD or HD quality. You can also use GetfVid to download Facebook live videos or convert Facebook videos into MP3 files. GetfVid works on both desktop and mobile devices and supports multiple languages.

7. Freemake Video Downloader

Freemake Video Downloader is a popular and trusted video downloader tool that can download videos from Facebook, YouTube, Vimeo, Dailymotion, and over 10,000 other sites. It supports various file formats like MP4, AVI, MKV, WMV, MP3, etc. and allows you to download videos in HD, Full HD, or 4K quality.

Freemake Video Downloader can also download playlists, channels, subtitles, and embedded videos. You can also use the built-in video converter and editor to customize your videos as you wish. Freemake Video Downloader is compatible with Windows devices and has a free version with some limitations.

8. FastVid

FastVid is a mobile app that lets you download Facebook videos on your Android device. You can use this app in several ways to download videos from Facebook. You can either browse Facebook within the app and tap on the video you want to download, or copy the URL of the video from the Facebook app or website and paste it into the app, or use the share button on the Facebook app or website and choose FastVid as the destination.

FastVid will then download the video in MP4 format in SD or HD quality. You can also use FastVid to watch or share your downloaded videos with other apps.

9. Video Downloader for Facebook

Video Downloader for Facebook is another mobile app that allows you to download Facebook videos on your Android device. This app has its own browser that lets you access Facebook and download any video you want with a single tap. You can also copy the URL of the video from the Facebook app or website and paste it into the app to download it.

Video Downloader for Facebook will save the video in MP4 format in SD or HD quality. You can also use this app to watch or share your downloaded videos with other apps.

10. MyVideoDownloader

MyVideoDownloader is a mobile app that enables you to download Facebook videos on your Android device. This app lets you browse your Facebook feed, timeline, groups, pages, or friends within the app and download any video you like with a single tap. You can also search for videos by keywords or hashtags.

MyVideoDownloader will save the video in MP4 format in SD or HD quality. You can also use this app to watch or share your downloaded videos with other apps.

Conclusion

These are some of the best Facebook video downloader tools that you can use in 2023 to save or download your favorite videos from Facebook. Whether you need a desktop software, an online tool, or a mobile app, you can find a suitable option from this list. Try them out and enjoy watching Facebook videos offline anytime and anywhere.

Ahmedabad Successfully Launches Asia’s Largest Floating Restaurant Cruise on Sabarmati River

By
Dimple Arora
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0
Photo credit: DeshGujarat

July 2, 2023, Today, Ahmedabad reached a new milestone in its riverfront development project with the successful launch of Asia’s largest floating restaurant cruise on the Sabarmati River. The much-anticipated inauguration ceremony, conducted virtually by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, marked the beginning of an exciting dining experience for the residents of Ahmedabad.

The idea of introducing a floating restaurant cruise on the Sabarmati River has been nurtured since Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated the riverfront development project. The vision was to create a leisure and entertainment option within the city, eliminating the need for residents to travel elsewhere. Through a public-private partnership, Sabarmati Riverfront Development Project Limited collaborated with a private company to bring this unique attraction to life.

The floating restaurant cruise offers two distinct dining areas, providing guests with a choice of experiences. The lower deck, fully enclosed with glass and equipped with central air conditioning, ensures a comfortable ambiance. It boasts amenities such as TV, projector, lighting, DJ sound system, and life-saving equipment. From both sides of the ship, guests can enjoy their meals while overlooking the breathtaking views of the Sabarmati River.

On the upper deck, guests can savor their meals while immersing themselves in the open-air environment. Even during the monsoon season, a roof covering has been provided to shield guests from rain, allowing them to appreciate the scenic beauty of the Sabarmati River. The kitchen, located at the back of the cruise, serves freshly prepared food brought in from off-site. Only items that require on-site preparation will be cooked on board, ensuring the highest quality dining experience.

The construction of this floating restaurant cruise, undertaken by Sabarmati Riverfront Development Limited (SRFDCL), required an investment of approximately Rs 10 crore. Additionally, an annual license fee of 45 lakhs was paid to the SRFDCL. After being transported from Umargam in Valsad, the cruise underwent three months of construction and rigorous testing. Today, it officially begins its operation, promising delightful dining experiences for the people of Ahmedabad.

Key Features of the Floating Restaurant Cruise:

1. Two-story cruise-cum-floating restaurant.

2. AC cabins on the first floor and open space on the upper deck.

3. Capacity to accommodate 125 to 150 people simultaneously.

4. Entertainment facilities including live shows, music parties, birthday parties, and office meetings.

5. One-and-a-half-hour round trip from Sardar Bridge to Gandhi Bridge.

6. Construction of a jetty between Sardar Bridge and Atal Bridge.

7. Project undertaken by Akshar Travels.

The launch of Asia’s largest floating restaurant cruise not only adds to the charm and attractiveness of the Sabarmati River but also provides a new and exciting form of entertainment for Ahmedabad’s residents. As locals and tourists alike embark on this culinary journey, they can look forward to a delightful experience with scenic views and a wide array of culinary delights.

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