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.
Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra's first national park established in 1955, is nestled in the Deccan plateau. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, it is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and home to diverse flora and fauna, including tigers. The park also features unique sandstone formations and is part of the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, offering an ecotourism destination par excellence.
The iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India is a stunning white marble mausoleum that shines like a beacon of love and beauty. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this breathtaking monument stands tall on the southern bank of the Yamuna River, captivating visitors from around the world with its intricate inlays, archways, and symmetrical design.
Talakona Waterfalls are one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Andhra Pradesh, located in the Visakhapatnam district. Known for their stunning beauty, these falls are approximately 30 meters high and are surrounded by lush greenery, offering a perfect spot for picnics and nature photography.
A 14th-century fort built by Rao Bikram, known for its historical significance and scenic surroundings. It includes palaces and temples within the complex.
Nestled atop a hill, Taragarh Fort is renowned for its strategic defense and intricate stone carvings. It stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient Rajasthan.
Tarapith is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site in West Bengal, renowned for the ancient Temple of Tara dedicated to Goddess Tara, an incarnation of Durga. It is located in the Bankura district and features the sacred Tarakund pond where devotees take holy dips. The site hosts vibrant festivals, including Navdurga, attracting pilgrims nationwide.
Tarkarli Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Maharashtra, known for its pristine white sand and clear blue waters. It offers a wide range of water sports activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing. The beach is located near Malvan town in Ratnagiri district and is a favorite destination among adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Tawang Monastery, nestled in the mountains of Arunachal Pradesh, is a revered seat of Tibetan Buddhism. Established in 1680 by the Third Dalai Lama, this ancient monastery stands as a testament to spiritual and architectural heritage.
The Tehri Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric projects in India, is a gravity-type dam on the Bhagirathi River. It was completed in 2006 and serves multiple purposes including power generation, flood control, and irrigation. The dam has a capacity to generate up to 1020 MW of electricity and spans an impressive 369 meters in height, making it a significant engineering feat.
Nestled in the eastern part of Arunachal Pradesh, Tezu serves as the administrative headquarters of the East Siang district. Known for its serene landscapes and proximity to the Tawang Monastery, Tezu offers a gateway to explore the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty of the region. The Brahmaputra River flows nearby, adding to the picturesque charm of this border town.
