Published in the Sunday Sakal on 09 March 2025
The state that is home to the birthplace of Lord Ram in Ayodhya and the birthplace of Lord Krishna in Mathura is none other than Uttar Pradesh. Lucknow is its capital, while Kanpur is the largest city. Some of India’s most sacred rivers, including the Ganga, Yamuna, Ghaghara, Gomti, and Sarayu, flow through this state. Additionally, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers can be seen in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The Kumbh Mela, the world's largest religious gathering, is held here every 12 years.
Varanasi, situated on the banks of the sacred Ganga, is one of India's most significant spiritual and cultural hubs. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple here is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visitors can witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, while Manikarnika and Dashashwamedh Ghats are well-known for religious rituals. The city is also famous for its exquisite Banarasi silk sarees. The world-famous Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.
The culinary delights of Awadhi, Mughlai, and Bhojpuri cuisine from this state are celebrated not just in India but across the world. Some must-try delicacies include Tunday Kababi, Agra’s Petha, Badami Puri, Lucknowi Biryani, and Malpua. In fact, a single day wouldn’t be enough to explore the diverse street food options of Varanasi. Some of its specialties include Kachori Sabzi, Tamatar Chaat, Baati Chokha, Chura Matar, Chhena Dahi Vada, Malaiyyo, Banarasi Thandai, Lassi, and the iconic Banarasi Paan.
The globally renowned classical dance form, Kathak, also has its roots in Uttar Pradesh. This state shares a border with Nepal. With the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the roads in the region have significantly improved. Since the consecration ceremony of Lord Ram in the temple last year, the number of tourists visiting Ayodhya has surged. The government is actively working towards boosting tourism-related businesses in the region.
If you wish to explore this land of rich art, culture, and heritage, join Veena World on an unforgettable tour of Uttar Pradesh!
Oh! I Didn’t Know This...
The Cellular Jail, a silent witness to the inhumane atrocities committed by the British government on India's freedom fighters, today stands as a symbol of India's struggle for independence. Built thousands of kilometers away from mainland India in an extremely remote location, this prison was designed for the solitary confinement of revolutionaries. Many inspiring stories of brave freedom fighters are preserved within its walls. The prison was constructed in a way that ensured prisoners could neither see nor communicate with each other. This was done to prevent them from uniting and rebelling against the British.
The very name "Kaala Pani" (Black Water Punishment) struck fear among Indians. This punishment meant complete isolation from one’s homeland, the loss of all rights, and the erasure of identity and social connections. That is why it was considered worse than a death sentence at the time.
The original structure of the jail had a central watchtower with seven wings radiating from it. Each wing had three floors, with 21 cells on each floor, totaling 694 individual cells. Some of these were destroyed during World War II. Today, only three wings remain. During the war, when the Japanese occupied the Andaman Islands, they used the Cellular Jail to torture British officers and Indian prisoners.
Besides the horrors of solitary confinement, prisoners were forced into brutal labor. They were made to extract coconut oil manually, chop wood, and crush stones for construction work. Any mistake led to severe beatings, shackling in iron chains, or starvation. Many revolutionaries, including Mahavir Singh, Mohan Kishore Namadas, and Mohit Moitra, protested against this brutality through hunger strikes, some even sacrificing their lives in the process.
After India gained independence, the remaining three wings of the Cellular Jail and the central watchtower were declared a National Memorial in February 1979. A specific section of the jail was used for executing prisoners. Despite such conditions, the brave freedom fighters imprisoned here devised ways to send messages to one another. Some wrote secret notes on scraps of cloth, while others managed to smuggle out letters with the help of kindhearted workers. These messages provided crucial information about the horrific conditions inside the jail to revolutionaries fighting for freedom outside.
Today, the Cellular Jail hosts a Sound & Light Show, narrated in the voice of actor Om Puri, recounting the struggles of the prisoners and the atrocities inflicted upon them by British rule.
If you're planning a trip to the Andaman Islands, join Veena World's Family, Women's Special, or Seniors' Special Tour and experience this significant historical landmark!
Veena World Travel Mission - 100 Country Club
Travel is about discovering yourself...
I have been traveling with Veena World since they started. I have toured Europe, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and many other destinations. I love exploring both the beauty of India and places beyond. Traveling has always been my passion. Each journey introduces me to different people, diverse cultures, and new experiences.
I am Anuradha Bhide from Miraj. My husband and I live together, while both our daughters are married. I book my tours through 'Nandini Travels,' Veena World's sales partner in Sangli. My first tour was to Sri Lanka with my husband, but after that, I have traveled either solo or with friends. So far, I have visited 16 countries. With Veena World, there isn’t much to prepare—just like their tagline says, *"Chalo, bag bharo, nikal pado, Veena World ke saath!"* (*"Come on, pack your bags and set off with Veena World!"*) I simply pack my bags and leave for the tour.
Once I select a destination, Veena World provides the itinerary, and based on the weather, I pack my clothes accordingly. If there’s a special experience on my bucket list for that place, I make the necessary preparations and set off. Most of the time, I travel alone, but with Veena World’s group tours, thre’s always a guaranteed room partner.
When I toured Europe, I fell in love with the entire continent—the nature, architecture, art, cleanliness, and the discipline of those countries were truly admirable. Honestly, every tour is memorable, but if I had to highlight one, it would be the trip to Singapore and Malaysia with my granddaughter. The entire experience—its atmosphere, the places we visited—was unforgettable.
Once, while I was on a Seven Sisters tour, my daughter had an accident back home in Maharashtra. The tour managers, Sunil Keni and Pravin More, helped me immensely, just like family. From booking my flight to ensuring I boarded safely, they took care of everything. Their warmth and support truly touched my heart.
Now, I am looking forward to visiting Cambodia and Vietnam.
Every time I travel, the change in environment, the experience of being surrounded by nature, and the opportunity to spend time with myself bring me immense joy. Traveling allows me to have meaningful conversations with myself, which I find very important. The biggest reason I choose Veena World is the sense of absolute freedom I experience with them. Once I entrust them with all the responsibilities, I am free to wander and explore to my heart’s content. This sense of liberation is what I cherish the most.
- Anuradha Bhide, Miraj, Maharashtra
Private Holiday Ideas with Veena World Customized Holidays
Popular Island Getaways
If you're looking to unwind on serene beaches, dive into vibrant coral reefs, or immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences, the world's exotic islands offer the perfect escape. Whether it's a family holiday or a romantic getaway, these island destinations promise an unforgettable experience!
Maldives:
- Stay in luxurious overwater villas with direct access to the ocean.
- Enjoy a unique seaplane ride to your hotel.
- Experience a romantic picnic on a private sandbank surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
- Dine at Ithaa and SEA, underwater restaurants offering breathtaking views of marine life.
Mauritius:
- Walk alongside lions at Casela Nature Park for a thrilling adventure.
- Take a helicopter ride to witness Mauritius’ stunning landscapes and the famous underwater waterfall illusion at Le Morne.
- Stay in a transparent bubble lodge and sleep under a sky full of stars.
Seychelles:
- Go snorkeling at Aldabra Atoll, one of the world’s largest coral atolls.
- Relax on the soft white sand beaches of La Digue Island.
- Spot giant tortoises and enjoy a secluded beach picnic on Île Moyenne Island.
Phuket & Krabi:
- Sail on a private yacht or longtail boat in Phang Nga Bay.
- Walk with elephants, feed them, and learn about their rehabilitation at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.
- Unwind in the natural Emerald Pool and hot springs.
- Swim among glowing bioluminescent plankton for a magical night experience.
Bali:
- Stay in a private pool villa overlooking the scenic rice terraces of Ubud.
- Experience the thrill of snorkeling and scuba diving at Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida islands.
- Go white-water rafting on the Ayung River.
- Relax at Bali’s luxury beach clubs while enjoying the sunset.
- Trek to Mount Batur for a mesmerizing sunrise and enjoy a unique breakfast cooked on volcanic heat.
- Visit Instagram-famous spots like the Bali Swing for picture-perfect moments.
Most of these island destinations offer Visa on Arrival, making last-minute holiday planning effortless. So why wait? Start planning your dream island holiday today with Veena World Customized Holidays!
Vivid Sydney
Vivid Sydney is the largest festival in Sydney, Australia, celebrating lights, music, ideas, and gastronomy. This year, it will take place from May 23 to June 14, marking its 15th edition.
As Australia's biggest event, Vivid Sydney transforms iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge with vibrant light installations and 3D projections. The festival features live music events showcasing both local and international artists. It also hosts discussions and workshops on topics ranging from technology and innovation to art and design.
Food lovers can explore a variety of culinary delights, from street food markets to exclusive dining events. Last year, the festival received its highest-ever response, drawing massive crowds and winning several prestigious awards.
This year, Vivid Sydney invites you to think beyond imagination, experience new adventures, and immerse yourself in unique ideas.
For more details, visit www.veenaworld.com
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