All posts by Richie

Varanasi a World Apart

Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is a place where spirituality, culture, and history blend seamlessly. Situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benares, is a city of immense importance in Hinduism and attracts visitors from all over the world.

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Here’s a short synopsis of the main things to see and do in Varanasi. Ganges River Ghats: The ghats, or steps leading down to the river, are the heart of Varanasi. There are around 84 ghats along the river, each with its own significance. Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest and most vibrant, known for its evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, while Manikarnika Ghat is the main cremation ghat. Boat Ride on the Ganges: A boat ride along the Ganges River offers a unique perspective of the city. It allows you to see the ghats from the water and witness the daily activities of the locals, as well as the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony from the river. Ganga Aarti: Witnessing the Ganga Aarti ceremony is a must-do experience in Varanasi. The ceremony takes place every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat and is a beautiful ritual where priests perform prayers with fire and incense, accompanied by chanting and ringing bells. Culinary Delights: Varanasi is a food lover’s paradise, with its wide range of street food and traditional dishes. Don’t miss trying the local specialties like chaat, kachori sabzi, and malaiyyo, a winter delicacy. Sarnath: Just a short drive from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site is home to several ancient Buddhist monuments and is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world. Silk Weaving Centers: Varanasi is famous for its Banarasi silk sarees, known for their intricate designs and rich colors. Visiting a silk weaving center gives you a glimpse into the artistry behind these beautiful sarees. Local Markets: The bustling markets of Varanasi are a treasure trove of traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and fabrics. Explore the narrow lanes of the old city to find unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local culture. Ramnagar Fort: Situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges River, Ramnagar Fort is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture. The fort houses a museum that displays vintage cars, royal costumes, and other artifacts. Banaras Hindu University (BHU): Founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is one of the largest residential universities in Asia. The campus is home to several museums and the Bharat Kala Bhavan, which houses a vast collection of artifacts. Varanasi is a city that overwhelms the senses with its spirituality, history, and culture. It’s a place where life and death are intertwined, and every corner has a story to tell. A visit to Varanasi is a journey into the heart of India’s spiritual and cultural heritage, an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

A Street Car Named Kolkata – Calcutta tram, Bengal, India

A Street Car Named Kolkata – Calcutta tram, Bengal, India. The Kolkata tram system, one of the oldest operating tram networks in Asia, has been an integral part of the city’s identity and heritage since its inception. The story of the Kolkata tram system begins in the late 19th century, during the British colonial era, when horse-drawn trams first started running on the streets of Calcutta in 1873. These trams were initially operated by private companies, but in 1880, the Calcutta Tramways Company was formed to manage the entire network.

Watch in English or French Below, Enjoy

 

The early 20th century saw significant developments in the tram system, with the introduction of electric trams in 1902, replacing the horse-drawn ones. This transition marked a new era for the Kolkata tram system, making it more efficient and reliable. The network expanded rapidly, covering more areas of the city and becoming an essential mode of transport for Kolkata. The tram system reached its peak in the 1940s and 1950s, with over 300 trams operating on various routes across the city. However, with the advent of buses and other modern modes of transport, the tram system began to decline in popularity. Many tram routes were discontinued, and by the 1980s, the network had shrunk significantly. Despite these challenges, the Kolkata tram system has managed to survive and even thrive in recent years, thanks to efforts to modernize and preserve this iconic mode of transport. Today, the Kolkata tram system operates on a reduced network, covering important parts of the city. It continues to be a popular choice for many residents, offering a nostalgic and unique way to experience the charm of Kolkata’s streets. The Kolkata tram system is not just a mode of transport; it is a symbol of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. It stands as a testament to Kolkata’s resilience and ability to preserve its past while embracing the future.

Darjeeling Toy Train

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway system more locally known as the Toy Train, today I spent about two and a half hours on the train and covered a distance of 18KM with two short stops. A great piece of history and fun as well. The weather is misty here so I could not always get the shots I would have liked but I enjoyed putting the film together. Of course at four minutes long it is way too long for anyone to be bothered watching it all the way to the end, this is social media, after all….

Watch in English or French below, enjoy

 

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