We proudly are a part of a nation which is one of the 12 mega diverse countries…….exciting enough, isn’t it? Although we all are an inseparable part of the race driving its way to conquer the materialistic dreams but still an undercurrent of spirituality runs in every Indian vein which cannot be denied. We do bow our heads wherever we come across a mandir gurudwara or any other religious place for that matter. Spiritual fervour in every Indian is palpable and we are quite serious about our spiritual drives. Moreover the pandemic like the one we are facing today as COVID 19 regains our belief in our tradition. Let’s take a detour of the 5 most beautiful worshipped destinations. A revival for those who have visited and procreating a yearning for all those who wish to visit.
Let’s embark on a journey to the enlightened corners of India
- Jagannath Temple (Puri, Orissa):
A mystical place where the flag defies the nature code of conduct, the roaring sound of splashing Arabian sea becomes silent, a temple which has no shadow at any time of the day and any direction, and many more things which drop your jaw in awe and reverence. Jagannath temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Krishna), Balabadhra, and Subhadra, dating back to 1078 is the most magical place for all Hindu devotees.
Rath Yatra or the Chariot Festival is held every year, where all the three deities are moved in elaborately decorated chariots and bathed in perfumed water with one hundred and eight pitchers. The Jagannath Temple is a symbol of Orissa’s rich history, culture, and traditions.
Being one of the most famous tourist attractions and an important pilgrimage destination, the Jagannath Temple is a part of the ‘Char Dham Yatra’. Located on the shores of the Arabian sea, this Hindu temple built in Kalinga and Dravidian style is a dream visit for every Hindu at least once in a lifetime.
Experience a true blissful journey!!!
- Golden Temple, Amritsar:
Darbar Sahib, the abode of God or Shri Harmandir Sahib stands as the testimony to royal Sikh heritage teaching the entire humanity brotherhood and equality. It is a must-visit for a person seeking spiritual solace and religious fulfilment. A Golden dome built around ‘Amrit Sarovar’ with four entrances represents openness to people of all religions. The shrine is a symbol of an egalitarian society and humility.
The community kitchen serving nearly a lakh people every day teaches the etiquette of eating and sitting in the community thus providing a welcoming secure and protected sanctuary.
As Bhai Desa Singh in his, Rehitnama says, ‘ A Sikh who is ‘well to do’ must look to the needs of his poor neighbours and must serve every traveller or pilgrim devotedly” and these instructions are religiously followed here.
Sat Shri Akal!!!
- Sheikh Salim Chisti Dargah, Fatehpur Sikri:
One of the finest examples of Mughal architecture is the tomb of Sufi Saint Sheikh Salim Chisti in Fatehpur Sikri, also known as Sheikh Salim Chisti Dargah. A well-known religious site that is common to people of all religions, this Dargah was built by Emperor Akbar in honour of the Sufi Saint. Built between the years 1580 and 1581, this mausoleum is made on a 1-meter-high platform and is decorated with mosaics of black and yellow marbles arranged in geometric patterns. The main hall boasts of intricate carvings on the marble and delicate latticework, while an ebony ‘chhaparkhat’ enclosure surrounds the marble cenotaph. A must-visit to admire the Mughal architecture and fine craftsmanship.
- Namgyal Monastery, Dharamshala
Nestled amongst magnificent Himalayan ranges and situated at an elevation of 10,000 feet is the personal monastery of His Highness the 14th Dalai Lama. A house to about 200 monks, the monastery attracts visitors with its serene ambience. Exuding the air of spiritualism, peace, and respect for the supreme perching on the commanding dhauladhar range of the magical Himalayas, the monastery is considered to be the Mecca of Tibetan Buddhism; it is the centre of the study of Buddhist culture and tradition.
Experience the spiritual spell cast on you with the soul rendering chants, a most desirous weekend getaway.
- Ganga Aarti, Haridwar:
River Ganga, our divine mother, absolving mankind of his sins is a culture in itself. With the aura reverberating with chants, mantra, and arti, the Ganga aarti performed at Har Ki Paudi is viewed by 3000 to 30,000 people in the evening. The holy dip in the chilling water of the Gangotri glacier has a therapeutic effect on the soul. It helps you to connect to your roots and awakens a desire to know more about Hindu tradition and culture. The scientific basis of Hinduism gets initiated from the fact that the scientists as yet could research why the water does not spoil even after years.
Experience of the holy dip forces everyone to delve into the basis of Hindu philosophy and tradition.
