Kurukshetra

Kurukshetra  pronunciation (help·info) (Hindi: कुरुक्षेत्र) is a land of historical and religious importance. Historically the land belonged to Punjab now a district in Haryana state of India. It is a holy place and is also known as Dharmakshetra ("Holy City"). According to the Puranas, Kurukshetra is named after King Kuru, the ancestor of Kauravas and Pandavas, as depicted in epic Mahabharata. The importance of the place is attributed to the fact that the Kurukshetra War of the Mahabharata was fought on this land and the Bhagavad Gita was preached on this land during the war when Lord Krishna found Arjuna in a terrible dilemma.^[1]

Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar' has written an epic poem by the title of Kurukshetra. It is a narrative poem based on the Santi Parvaof the Mahabharata.^[2] It was written at a time when the memories of the Second World War were fresh on the mind of the poet.^[2]

Thanesar or Sthaneswar is a historical town located adjacent to what is now the newly created Kurukshetra city. Thanesar derives its name from the word "Sthaneshwar", which means "Place of God". The Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple, whose presiding deity is Lord Shiva, is believed to be the oldest temple in the vicinity. Local hearsay identifies the legendary "Kurukshetra" with a nearby place known as Thanesar. A few kilometeres from Kurukshetra is the village known as Amin, where there are remnants of a fort which is believed to beAbhimanyu's fort.

In some ancient Hindu texts, the boundaries of Kurukshetra correspond roughly to the state of Haryana. Thus according to the Taittiriya Aranyaka 5.1.1., the Kurukshetra region is south of Turghna (Srughna/Sugh in Sirhind, Punjab), north of Khandava (Delhi and Mewatregion), east of Maru (desert) and west of Parin.^[3]

History

A manuscript of Mahabharata depicting the war at Kurukshetra

It is written in Puranas that Kurukshetra is named after King Kuru of the Bharata Dynasty, ancestor of Pandavas and Kauravas.

The Vamana Purana tells how King Kuru came to settle on this land. He chose this land at the banks of Sarasvati River for embedding spirituality with 8 virtues: austerity (tapas), truth (satya), forgiveness (kshama), kindness (daya), purity (sucha), charity (dana), yagya andbrahmacharya. Lord Vishnu was impressed with the act of King Kuru and blessed him. God gave him two boons, one that this land forever will be known as a Holy Land after his name as Kurukshetra (the land of Kuru) and the other that anyone dying on this land will be going to heaven. The land of Kurukshetra was situated between two rivers — the Sarasvati and the Drishadvati.

Bronze Chariot with Lord Krishna andArjuna

This land has been known as Uttravedi, Brahmavedi, Dharamkshetra and Kurukshetra at different periods. When King Kuru came on this land it was called Uttarvedi. Over the period this land has been ruled by many empires. The Bharata Dynasty came and settled on this land.

Later the Battle of Mahabharata was fought on this land, during which Lord Krishna preachedBhagavad Gita to Arjuna.

It reached the zenith of its progress during the reign of King Harsha, during which Chinese scholar Hieun Tsang visited this land at Thanesar. By the archaeological grounds it has been proved that Ashoka the Great made Kurukshetra a centre of learning for people from all over the world.

[edit]Places of interest

• Brahma Sarovar: Every year lakhs of people come to take a holy bath at Brahma Sarovar on the occasion of "Somavati Amavasya" (Sacred No-Moon Day that happens on a Monday) and on solar eclipse believing that a bath in holy sarovar frees all sins and cycle of birth-death.
• Sannihit Sarovar: This sarovar is believed to be the meeting point of seven sacred Saraswatis. The sarovar, according to popular belief, contains sacred water. Bathing in the waters of the tank on the day of Amavasya (night of complete darkness) or on the day of an eclipse bestows blessings equivalent to performing the ashvamedh yajna.
  

  

  Bhishma Kund
• Jyotisar: The famous site where Bhagavad Gita was delivered to Arjuna
• Krishna Museum has some historical artifacts and paintings depicting the Mahabharata war.
• Kurukshetra Panorama and Science Centre: A world-class panorama depicting the Mahabharata war with scientific explanations justifying every episode in the war. There are also several scientific exhibits designed to kindle a curiosity for science.
• Kalpana Chawla Planetarium
• Kessel Mall: A shopping mall cum multiplex at sector 17 for food, shopping and entertainment.
• Light and Sound Show: A newly built tourist attraction which highlights some aspects of Geeta Saar through lights and sound.
• Dharohar: A must visit to know the tradition and culture of Haryana; located in Kurukshetra University.
• Bhishma Kund at Naraktari: The place where Arjuna shot an arrow towards the earth to quench Bhisma Pitamah's thirst.
• Saraswati Forest Reserve: It is a large reserved forest area with rich flora and fauna in Kurukshetra district.
• Sheikh Chehli ka makbara (tomb): This monument is maintained by the Archeological Survey of India. It was built during the Mughal era in remembrance of Sufi Saint Sheikh Chehli, believed to be the spiritual teacher of Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh. However, this is an erroneous belief, since the Prince's main 'Murshid' or 'Sheikh' (Spiritual Guide) is historically known to have been Hazrat Sheikh Mian Mir Sahib, of Lahore,^[4] although Sheikh Chehli might have been an additional/minor guide. There is another theory that the site of the supposed 'makbara' or tomb was one of the meditative 'Chillas' or sites of Hazrat Mian Mir Sahib, who might have visited the area during his wanderings.^[5] It is possible that a later caretaker, some disciple of the Hazrat/Sheikh lies buried here, at the place sanctified by his 'Chilla'.
• Sthaneshwar Mahadev
• Kamal Nabhi
• Valmiki Ashram
  

  

  Kurukshetra in a map of the Indian subcontinent's ancient cities
• Birla Mandir
• Gurdwara Raj Ghat Patshahi Dasvin
• Gurdwara Teesari Patshahi
• Gurdwara Chhevin Patshahi
• Gurdwara Siddh Bati Patshahi Pahili
• Pehowa
• Ban Ganga in villag: A temple that is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas. As per the story in Hindu mythology, the goddess Sati killed herself by entering the Yagna of Raja Daksha as a protest against the insult of Lord Shiva. Remorseful Lord Shiva wandered across the whole universe with the corpse of his beloved Sati on his shoulder. To bring him back to the original mood, it was necessary to destroy the corpse of Sati. Lord Vishnu hence cut the corpse in 52 pieces with his Sudarshana Chakra. The parts fell at different places where the temples of the goddess were later built by the devotees. Collectively, these are known as the 52 Shakti Peethas. One of them is in Kurukhsetra, where the ankle of the goddess fell.

[edit]Jhansa

Jhansa is a village in the Kurukshetra district. It is known for its river and canals, and the Markanda temple, built on the banks of the Markanda River.

There is a beautiful scenic view in the village where SYL Bhakhra Canal and Markanda River intersects. In the summer you can have a chilling bath in Gulla Canal and Bhakhra Canal.

Ranthambore Tour (Day 5 info)

On Day 5 of the Rajputana Splendour tour, you will be taken for an exciting jeep safari in Ranthambore. Home to a large population of tigers, the Ranthambore National Park is one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in the world and is visited by thousands of wildlife enthusiasts every year. You will also be able to avail the services of a naturalist who will acquaint you with the flora and fauna of Ranthambore. Tracing the ever-elusive tiger is not a very easy task. However, your naturalist will try his best to attract the tiger by making noises of different animals or by following the great beast's pugmarks.
At times, it is not possible to sight a tiger during a jungle safari. If you do not have the luck to see the wild beast that afternoon, your naturalist would take you once more inside the park.

Agra - Ranthambore Tour (Day 4 info)

On day 4 of the Rajputana Splendour Tour, you will travel to Fatehpur Sikri, the grand but deserted Mughal capital founded by Emperor Akbar during 1571 to 1585 AD. However, a great shortage of water forced him to desert the city after 12 years. A ghost town today, Fatehpur Sikri has still managed to retain its characteristic grandeur and is one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture we can ever behold today.
Later during the day, you will undertake a 7-hour road journey to Ranthambore, located at a distance of 265 km away from Agra. On the way, you will stop at a roadside Dhaba or restaurant to get a taste of the famous India tea. You will also be given the option of stopping at the Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary to indulge in some enjoyable bird watching exercises.

On arrival at Ranthambore, you will be driven to the Nahargarh Fort Hotel that is one of the finest heritage hotels in the area. Your overnight stay will be at the same hotel in Ranthambore

New Delhi - Agra Tour (Day 3 info)

Day 3 of the Rajputana Splendour Tour would see you covering a distance of 203 kms to Agra, the city of the ethereal Taj Mahal. Enroute, you will stop at Sikandara that houses the tomb of Emperor Akbar. Built in red sandstone, this monument is one of the finest examples of the famed Mughal style of architecture. In fact, a visit to Sikandara would be a prelude to what lies in store for you in form of the Taj Mahal. You will then drive through the busy streets of Agra towards hotel Jaypee Palace, a fine blend of traditional hospitality and modernity.
Later in the day, enjoy a tonga ride to the Taj Mahal, one of the most poignant symbols of love ever beheld by man. In fact, this marble structure is the most famous symbol of India that attracts tourists in hordes. Many even go on to say that a single visit to the Taj Mahal is worth the entire trip to India. As you walk through the corridor, don't be surprised to see your hand moving to touch the cool marble that has been touched by thousands of tourists who have visited Taj Mahal in the past. Besides, your guide will be there to give you all the details about the Taj Mahal, right from its rich architecture to its history. Your guide will also take a photo shoot of you with the Taj Mahal.

As part of the Rajputana Splendour Tour, you will travel to Agra Fort, an impressive structure built as a military structure by Mughal Emperor Akbar. However, this red sandstone fort was later transformed by Shah Jahan to a grand palace. Besides, the Agra Fort was the very place where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb in 1658. Visit the local market to buy white pigeons that would be released by you in the open air in memory of Shah Jahan. Your guide will also take you to a marble house where you can learn about marble inlaying or simply indulge in kite flying in the playground. Later drive back to the hotel where you will stay overnight

Delhi Tour (Day 2 info)

On day 2 of the Rajputana Splendour Tour, you will tour the historic city of Delhi and its numerous attractions. A wonderful mix of history and modernity, Delhi is a perfect example of modern India on the move. As part of the Rajputana Splendour Tour, travel to Chandni Chowk right after breakfast. One of the busiest market areas in Delhi, Chandni Chowk is an experience of a lifetime. Later proceed towards the impressive Jama Masjid, a rich symbol of faith and trust. The visit will be followed by a trip to the Red Fort, one of the most important symbols of power and bravery you can ever come across in India. The fort also houses a fine museum that displays many articles that hark back the turbulent times of the Indian Freedom Movement. The Raj Ghat would be the next stop in Old Delhi. With devotional music playing in the background, this resting place of Mahatma Gandhi exudes a peaceful charm that touches the very soul.
After the Old Delhi tour, you will proceed towards India Gate, a tribute to the brave sons of India who went down fighting for their motherland. You will also drive past the Rashtrapati Bhawan and the Parliamentary House before returning to your hotel for a sumptuous lunch. Later, drive to the famous Birla Mandir and see for yourself how mythology still plays a major role in determining India's beliefs and culture. Your guide will then take you to the Lotus Temple or the Bahai Temple, a place where all religions merge into one and people pray to a universal God. Next, you will travel to Qutub Minar, a majestic structure that fascinates every beholder. If you wish to see more of Delhi and its attractions, we can provide a list of the other monuments and interesting sites you can visit.
Your evening in Delhi will be a wonderful affair with the famed Ms. Komal Taneja showing you how to prepare some delicious Indian dishes besides acquainting you with Indian food in general. The second day of the Rajputana Splendour Tour would end with a lavish dinner, accompanied by some wonderful music. Return to your hotel for a good night's sleep and to brace yourself for a wonderful time as you travel to Agra the next day.

Delhi Tour (Day 1 info)

On Day 1 of the Rajputana Splendour tour, you will be accorded a traditional welcome at the Delhi Indira Gandhi International airport, complete with garlands, vermilion tikkas and the customary "namaste". The capital of India, Delhi is a rich tapestry of colors that dazzle the eyes. Moreover, this city is a charming blend of the old and new, which again gives it a special character.
The very first day of your Rajputana Splendour tour would throw up many beautiful moments for you to cherish. Right from the famed "Indian hospitality" to a first hand experience of what life in India is all about, there will be lots for you to see and do. Moreover, we will be there to capture these moments on camera and make sure that you are able to relive them throughout your life.
Thereafter, you will be driven to hotel Oberoi Maidens by a chauffeur who would be with you throughout the tour. You will also be given a small presentation that would give you a good idea about the Rajputana Splendour tour. On arrival at the Oberoi Maidens hotel, a classic example of 19th century colonial style architecture, you will promptly be shown your room where you can relax for the remaining part of the day.

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