Consolidated by Ādi Shankaracharya (8th century CE), Advaita proposes that Brahman is the only reality, and the phenomenal world is an illusion (māyā). It teaches that individual consciousness (ātman) and universal consciousness (Brahman) are identical, famously expressed as 'Tat Tvam Asi' (That Thou Art).
Founded by Makkhali Gosala (6th century BCE), Ājīvika taught a doctrine of complete determinism and fatalism (niyati). It denied free will and karma, asserting that all beings progress through a predetermined cycle of 8.4 million rebirths before automatically attaining liberation.
Propounded by thinkers like Bhaskara (9th-10th century CE) and Nimbarka (13th century CE), this Vedantic school holds that the relationship between Brahman and the world/souls is one of simultaneous difference and non-difference, like the relationship between waves and the ocean.
A festival observed by mothers for the well-being of their children, involving fasting and prayers to Goddess Ahoi.
An auspicious day for beginning new ventures and purchasing gold, believed to bring prosperity and good fortune.
The final day of the Ganesh festival when idols are immersed in water. Also marks the worship of Lord Vishnu in his Ananta (infinite) form.
Agra Fort is a grand Mughal fort in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. It was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565 and served as the capital of India during the Mughal era. The fort is renowned for its intricate architecture, including the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the impressive gateway known as the Hathi Pol (Elephant Gate). It also houses the Gurudwara where Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, was imprisoned by Emperor Aurangzeb.
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Agumbe is a serene hill station renowned for its sprawling coffee plantations. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a picturesque setting with tea and spice plantations. The region is perfect for trekking enthusiasts and features the iconic Sharavathi Waterfall nearby. Its cool climate makes it an ideal retreat from bustling cities.
Nestled in the scenic valleys of Jammu & Kashmir, Aharbal Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder. Known for its cascading waters and lush surroundings, it offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The waterfall is a popular spot for trekking and sightseeing, surrounded by dense forests and serene landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Poonch district.
Nestled in the heart of Andhra Pradesh, Bhavani Island is a serene eco-tourism destination known for its lush greenery and natural beauty. It offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers, with opportunities for adventure activities like trekking, bird watching, and exploring diverse flora and fauna, making it a hidden gem for tourists seeking tranquility and outdoor experiences.
Bhedaghat, also known as Marble Rocks, is a popular tourist destination in Madhya Pradesh. It offers stunning views of the Narmada River and its unique marble cliffs that rise up to 300 feet high. The area is famous for its peculiar rock formations resembling elephants, crocodiles, and tortoises, making it a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Dedicated to Lord Bhima, one of the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, the Bhimashankar Temple is a significant site in Pune district, Maharashtra. Known for its unique architecture with intricate carvings, it offers a glimpse into India's spiritual heritage and historical significance, attracting both pilgrims and tourists.
The Bhimbetka Rock Shelters are a complex of prehistoric rock shelters and natural caves located in the Betul district of Madhya Pradesh, India. These shelters are part of the Bhimbetka-Balaghat hills and are known for their ancient rock paintings dating back to the Paleolithic period. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers insights into the lives of early human settlements.
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Bhimtal is a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand. Known for its lush greenery and serene atmosphere, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The town is dotted with charming bungalows and holiday homes, and is a haven for nature lovers. It's also a gateway to adventure activities like trekking, water sports, and exploring nearby attractions like Kausani and Almora. Bhimtal is particularly enchanting during the monsoon season when its lush greenery comes alive.
Nestled in Rewari district of Haryana, Bhindawas Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Known for its diverse avian population, including migratory birds like flamingos and Siberian cranes, the sanctuary offers a serene environment for nature lovers to explore and observe wildlife.
The birthplace of Buddhism, Bodh Gaya is where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. It is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists and features the iconic Mahabodhi Temple.
Nestled in the Shillong-Pakistan Range, Bomdila is a picturesque hill station in Arunachal Pradesh, India. Known for its serene beauty and pleasant climate, it offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and vibrant tea plantations. The town is also home to several monasteries and religious sites, making it a destination for both nature lovers and spiritual seekers. Bomdila serves as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding regions and engaging in adventure activities like trekking and hiking.
The Brihadeeswarar Temple, also known as the Tanjore Devaraja Temple, is one of the largest temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu in India. Located in Thanjavur (Tanjore), this iconic temple showcases exquisite Dravidian architecture with a gilded roof, earning it the nickname 'Golden Temple'. The temple's interior features stunning frescoes depicting scenes from Indian mythology and is celebrated for its artistic and cultural significance. Constructed during the Chola dynasty in the 10th century, it stands as a testament to Tamil Nadu's rich heritage.
Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement is a vibrant community in Karnataka, established by followers of the Dalai Lama after 1959. It preserves rich Tibetan culture, art, and architecture, featuring monasteries like Drepung and Sera. This settlement offers insights into Tibetan traditions and way of life amidst the scenic Karnataka landscape.
