Scarce Korean Coin From The Military Training Command

From 1633 to 1891 Korea issued an extensive series of bronze cash coins, called Sang P’yong T’ong Bo, or: Always even currency”.

Coins were minted by various government agencies. Most of these coins were melted after Japan gained control of Korea starting in 1895, thus they are rarely seen today.

The Korean coins tend to be much cruder and not as well cast as those of China or Japan. This 1 Mun coin was issued by the Korean Military Training Command between 1832 and 1857. The reverse gives the mint name, as well as the furnace and series number for the coin

Modern Lincoln cent

The Lincolncent is the current one cent coin of the US Dollar. It was adopted in 1909, replacing the Indian Head cent. Its obverse, featuring a bust of Abraham Lincoln (to commemorate his centennial), has been in permanent usage. Its reverse was changed in 1959 from a wheat stalks design to a design which includes the Lincoln Memorial (to memorialize's sesquicentennial) and was replaced again in 2009 with four new designs to memorialize Lincoln's centenary. There are more one-cent coins produced than any other value, which makes the Lincoln cent, a familiar item. In its life span, this coin has weathered two world conflicts, one of which changed it significantly, because metals play a vital part in any war effort. The obverse is the longest design used for any circulating American design.[?]

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Reverse

1921 Peace Silver Dollar

The Peace Dollar is a silver United States dollar coin minted from 1921 to 1928, then again in 1934 and 1935. Early proposals for the coin called for a memorial issue to correspond with the end of World War, but the Peace Dollar was issued as a circulate coin.[?]

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Reverse

Hampi

One of the most superlative city of the world in its hey-days, Hampi still gleams with its extreme past implication Accepted by UNESCO as one of the World Heritage Site, Hampi – the world famous majestic city, bewitch tourists from all over with its only one of its kind architectural beauty.

Hampi, seeming “as large as antique rome” and the capital of Vijayanagara, the largest empire in post-Mughal India (14th century), is today aesthetical joy to experience. The Vijayanagara empire famous for bringing great work of transformation and structure of temples and architectural complex left its very capital, Hampi, of no exception. The city frozen in time is still brimmed with sculptural and architectural beauty boasting its majesty.

The ruined city of Hampi today spread into 26 sq km of area, and visit to it assure you that you are left with a good pack of high regard of its elegant palaces and complex. Walking through the places which once held the clamorous bazaars, and numerous of temples and palaces may have lost its liveliness, but the whole complex still has something incomparable to boast of. And that is its elan of architectural and sculptural richness. The pride and valor of the desolated city still dwells in each of its design and carving work.

Royal Enclosure: Walking into the citadel of the city takes you to view many of royal buildings, such as palaces, pavilions, public baths, stables and other quarters. Some buildings catching your attention are Queen’s Bath, Mahanavami Dibba, Hazara Rama Temple and Elephant stables.

The Temple Area: Laid out in traditional South-Indian styles, temples like Virupaksha Temple, Achyut Raya Temple, Vitthala Temple and Krishna Temple are some of the famous temples, which keep tourists engaged in gazing its architectural beauty. Close to the Vitthala Temple is King’s Balance, the famous stone frame.

Agra Fort

Better called as Red fort of Agra, Agra Fort lying only 2 km far from the Taj Mahal is called as its sister memorial. Occupied by all of the famous Mughal emperors like Babur, Humayun, Shahjahan and Aurangzeb, the fort gets a huge importance in the history of India. Reconstructed in its current state between 1565-1571, the fort still maintains pompously its architectural and chronological majesty.

Agra Fort on both sides of almost 2.5 km, like the Taj Mahal, lies on the bank of river Yamuna. Made of red brickwork, the enormous like fort has two gates – the Delhi Gate and Amar Singh Gate. Still, northern part of the fort (Delhi Gate) is used by Indian Army, and is not open for general public. Though the single gate, Amar Singh Gate is available and open for common herd, yet it is worth giving one a impressive peer into chronological and architectural elegance of the fort.

Jahangiri Mahal: Viewing this largest private residence of the fort, Jehangiri Mahal will let you witness the Hindu and central Asian architectural style.

Khas Mahal: Seeing paintings on the white marble surface is thoroughly breathtaking as the physical setting as well as the eminent paintings are best example of Persian-Islamic art wonder.

The Moti Masjid: Built of white marble, the Pearl Mosque is another wonder for tourists letting them keep gazing its architectural beauty.

Sheesh Mahal: Being at the Sheesh Mahal (Glass Palace) implies getting stunned with the view of one of the best work of glass-mosaic decoration of the country.

Humayun Tomb

Following the burial chamber style of Taj Mahal, Humayun Tomb is one of the best conserved memorials of Mughal construction. The tombs having the model of Charbagh has been selected as the World Heritage Site, and have become one of the most popular tourist spot in the chronological city of Delhi.

With high arches and double dome, the tomb was built by the senior widow of Mughal emperor, Humayun after his death in 1556. The magnificent tomb is said to be the inspiration behind construction of many other Mughal and other historical edifice. The large stone platform of the tomb is surrounded by beautiful garden, which form the best attraction of the tomb.

The beautiful view of the Humayun Tomb is seen even from the Humayun Darwaja (gateway) at Purana Quila (old fort). The carvings and in-laid works on the red sandstones similes the kind of craftsmanship done in Taj Mahal. That is why historian designates this tomb as masculine equivalent of Taj Mahal. Walking through the three gardens and storeyed gateways show visitors the supremacy of Mughal architectural taste.

Charbagh: Divided into small squares by pathways, the garden of the tomb better called as Charbagh is the best thing to strike you first when you enter the tomb.

The Tomb: Three lofty arches and marbled double dome (unlike all the domes of complexes in contemporary period) are the best architectural attraction in the tomb.

Other monuments: Visit to many of the famous complexes like Barber’s Tomb, Arab Ki Sarai, Afsarwala Tomb and Masjid and Tomb of Isha Khan are rich in their architectural beauty, and are joy for tourists.

Fatehpur Sikri

One among all World Heritage Sites of India, Fatehpur Sikri tops the list with its beautiful architectural beauty and rich historical significance. Located 37 km from Agra, the city of Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri even after four centuries of ts existence remains with its greater architectural beauty as it was earlier.

Now abandoned, Fatehpur Sikri or city of victory, built by great Mughal emperor Akbar, is better known for its architectural magnificence. Built between 1571 and 1585, Fatehpur Sikri sets one of the best example of Mughal architectural splendour, which is undoubtedly one of the best architectural and historical asset which the country has inherited from the past.

Walking amidst the red sandstone made courtyards and complexes, getting stunned with its architectural structure and its beauty is no wonder. The diverse and distinct architectural style of the complex let one explore an exquisite amalgam of Muslim and Hindu craftsmanship. Complexes like Diwan-i-Khas, Ankh-Michauli, Panch Mahal, Khwabgah (the palace of dreams), Jodha Bai’s Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jami Masjid and Buland Darwaza are places where one witnesses a comprehensive presentation of rich architectural beauty.

Watch the architectural wonder of Mughal era: The magnificent complex made of red sandstone will show you a perfect amalgam of Hindu and Muslim architectural craftsmanship, which prevailed during the Mughal era.

Enjoy the religious and spiritual affinity: A visit to nearby Dargah of Sheikh Salim Chisti is must while you are at Fatehpur. As the Dargah is of deeper religious significance, a prayer before the Dargah has to be have in your schedule.

Capture the history in your camera: The best you can bring back to your home from this renowned monument will be its photographs. Whether you are gazing at the huge pillars of Diwan-I-Khas, 5-storey edifice of Panch Mahal or architectural intricacy of Jami Masjid, you will get strong reason to capture all of them in your camera.

Ajanta Caves

The majestic Ajanta Caves are located near the city of Aurangabad in Mumbai. As a popular World Heriatge Site of India, these caves are repository of 30 other caves in which 9, 10, 19 26 and 29 are chaitya-grihas and the rest are monasteries. These caves are world famous for the cave shrines that are cut out of rock. The carvings depict the life of Buddha. The Ajanta caves were discovered in the 19th century by the group of british officials.

The caves at Ajanta are architecturally marvelous. They are set in a steep crescent-shaped hillside in a forested ravine of the Sahayadri hills. The Buddhists caves of Ajanta are popularly known for their well preserved frescoes (wall paintings) which vividly depict the lifestyle of that period. These caves narrate the age old tradition and culture. These caves presents the finest examples of some of the earliest Buddhist architecture, cave paintings and sculptures.

Architecture admiration : Ajanta caves are the most amazing architectural sites in India. Indulge yourself in sightseeing around these beautiful caves. Admire the beautifully decorated and most preserved paintings, portraying magnificent array of colours, hairstyles, poses and costumes. Have a look at the decorated galleries, curved pillars, Jataka scenes, mighty doorways. Theses caves have unique floral pattern and roofs are beautifully designed. The sculptures resembles the fine images of the animals, birds as well as flowers.

Enjoy photography : Spend some time taking pictures of these wonder caves. The best time for photographing is the morning time as the Ajanta Caves face eastwards. You can also enjoy shooting inside the caves, but avoid shooting in the afternoon as during that period the inside chambers of the caves are less illuminated.

Sightseeing : You can simply laze around in the open lawns or you can also take the bicycle ride to explore the caves. You can hire a guide who can help you visiting all the hidden treasures of the Ajanta and Ellora while, and can explain the historical importance and significance of these caves. Make a visit to the nearby popular places such as Ellora caves, Elephanta island, Khandala and Lonavala.

Shopping : Shop for the Paithani silk saris, Himroo textiles, Mashru and Kimkhab weaves. Womens can buy semi-precious stones available in rough, polished and jewelery form. Old coins of the Mughal period will prove to be a unique buy for tourist.

Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal is regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world, and some Western historians have noted that its architectural beauty has never been surpassed. The Taj is the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. The Taj seems to glow in the light of the full moon. On a foggy morning, the visitors experience the Taj as if suspended when viewed from across the Jamuna river.

Taj Mahal was built by a Muslim, Emperor Shah Jahan (died 1666 C.E.) in the memory of his dear wife and queen Mumtaz Mahal at Agra, India. It is an “elegy in marble” or some say an expression of a “dream.” Taj Mahal (meaning Crown Palace) is a Mausoleum that houses the grave of queen Mumtaz Mahal at the lower chamber. The grave of Shah Jahan was added to it later. The queen’s real name was Arjumand Banu. In the tradition of the Mughals, important ladies of the royal family were given another name at their marriage or at some other significant event in their lives, and that new name was commonly used by the public. Shah Jahan’s real name was Shahab-ud-din, and he was known as Prince Khurram before ascending to the throne in 1628.

Taj Mahal was constructed over a period of twenty-two years, employing twenty thousand workers. It was completed in 1648 C.E. at a cost of 32 Million Rupees. The construction documents show that its master architect was Ustad ‘Isa, the renowned Islamic architect of his time. The documents contain names of those employed and the inventory of construction materials and their origin. Expert craftsmen from Delhi, Qannauj, Lahore, and Multan were employed. In addition, many renowned Muslim craftsmen from Baghdad, Shiraz and Bukhara worked on many specialized tasks.

The Taj stands on a raised, square platform (186 x 186 feet) with its four corners truncated, forming an unequal octagon. The architectural design uses the interlocking arabesque concept, in which each element stands on its own and perfectly integrates with the main structure. It uses the principles of self-replicating geometry and a symmetry of architectural elements.

Its central dome is fifty-eight feet in diameter and rises to a height of 213 feet. It is flanked by four subsidiary domed chambers. The four graceful, slender minarets are 162.5 feet each. The entire mausoleum (inside as well as outside) is decorated with inlaid design of flowers and calligraphy using precious gems such as agate and jasper. The main archways, chiseled with passages from the Holy Qur’an and the bold scroll work of flowery pattern, give a captivating charm to its beauty. The central domed chamber and four adjoining chambers include many walls and panels of Islamic decoration.

The mausoleum is a part of a vast complex comprising of a main gateway, an elaborate garden, a mosque (to the left), a guest house (to the right), and several other palatial buildings. The Taj is at the farthest end of this complex, with the river Jamuna behind it. The large garden contains four reflecting pools dividing it at the center. Each of these four sections is further subdivided into four sections and then each into yet another four sections. Like the Taj, the garden elements serve like Arabesque, standing on their own and also constituting the whole.

Red Fort

The heritage list after Qutab Minar and Humayun's Tomb. Red Fort or Lal Quila is the largest of the monument in the old Delhi which is situated on the western bank of the river Yamuna. It was the palace for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's new capital called- Shahjahanabad. It is one of the most spectacular pieces of the Mughal architecture in Delhi.

The massive fort is built of red sandstone. The construction began in 1639 and completed in 1648. It has two main entrances. Visitors can get entrance either from the either from the Delhi gate or from the Lahore gate. It is surrounded by the walls that extends up to 2 kms in circumference. The fort has beautifully constructed Diwan-i-Aam or the Hall of Public audience where emperor used to hear complaints of the common people. Diwan-i-Khas resembles the beautiful Urdu poetry of Amir Khusro as - 'If there is Paradise on the face of the earth, it is here, it is here, it is here'. Diwan-i-Khas once housed the famous peacock throne, which was plundered by the Nadir Shah in 1739. The Rang Mahal or the Palace of Colours is the another main attraction of this fort. It is known for th lotus shaped fountain.

It was from here that the Britishers forced the last Mughal ruler Bahadur Shah Zafar to leave the empire. It marked the end of Mughal rule in India. The first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, unfurled the Indian tricolour flag here and delivered the speech anouncing the indepence of India.

Light and sound show at Red Fort : Visitors can enjoy the light and sound show at the Red Fort held in the evening. Shows are in English and Hindi and the tickets are available from the fort. The English sessions are at 7.30 pm from November to January, 8.30 pm from February to April and September to October, and at 9 pm from May to August.

Nature walk : You can take a nature walk in and around the Red Fort admiring its magnificent architecture work. Kill some time taking pictures of this beautiful monuments. You can also hire the guides , who give the better insight of the fort.

Shopping : Chatta Chowk is the famous market place near to the Red Fort. You can buy everything from souvenirs, knickknacks to carpets and fine brass. After shopping you can also enjoy the famous pani puri and bhel puri from the road side stalls.

Konark Sun Temple

Also known as the 'Black Pagoda', Konark Sun Temple is the clowning glory of Orissa. It was built in the 13th century by the king Narasimhadeva of Ganga Dynasty in order to mark his military victory. It resembles a colossal chariot, with 24 wheels, pulled by the seven distracting horses. It has two lions on its entrance as the gatekeepers which are shown as crushing the war elephants. Sun Temple has been included in the World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. Konark lay directly in the path of a total solar eclipse. It is said that the temple was built by the Samba, the son of Lord Krishna.

Also known as the 'Black Pagoda', Konark Sun Temple is the clowning glory of Orissa. It was built in the 13th century by the king Narasimhadeva of Ganga Dynasty in order to mark his military victory. It resembles a colossal chariot, with 24 wheels, pulled by the seven distracting horses. It has two lions on its entrance as the gatekeepers which are shown as crushing the war elephants. Sun Temple has been included in the World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. Konark lay directly in the path of a total solar eclipse. It is said that the temple was built by the Samba, the son of Lord Krishna.

Dip in the Sacred Pond : Do-not forget to take a dip in the sacred pond at the Konark Temple. It is assumed that by that the pond has some divine power through which all the one can get escape from all the worries of his life. Samba, son of lord Krishna, was cursed of Leprosy on throwing a stone in the Konark beach which fell into sacred pond and laid the foundation of Sun Temple.

Nature Walk : Take the nature walk along the Konark beech. Relish the cool breeze blowing behind your face. Konark beech provides the perfect location for picnic. Fishing, angling, and sea cruising are the other activities which you can enjoy here.

Festivals : Konark is most famous for its dance festival which is held annually. Devotees perform traditional classical dance called Odisi and celebrated the festival with great spirit and enthusiasm. Religious festival Chandrabhaga mela and Magha Saptami are celebrated in the month of February.

Shopping : Spend time exploring the handicrafts items from the beech stalls. The most famous items include paintings on palm leaves, crafts of beads and fabric and most important stone made God images. While in Orissa try out its most popular dish Masala dosa.

Golden Temple Amritsar

The Golden Temple of Amritsar with its sheer magnificence embodies the perfection of architectural richness of the country. The most popular shrine of Sikhs of all over the world, the Golden Temple is also the most important Sikh pilgrimage spot of the country.

Also called as Harimandir Sahib or Darwar Sahib, the Golden Temple of Amritsar (Punjab) gets its history 400 years back. The venue where the Golden Temple finds its location is attached with heaps of significant Hindu mythological stories. Legend has it that Amrit Kund, the pool of nectar, where the current Golden Temple is located, was the place where Rishi Valmiki wrote the most celebrated Hindu epic Ramayana.

The present magnificent complex of Golden Temple conceived by Guru Arjan Singh was built completely in the year 1601. Built in the middle of a beautiful sarovar (lake), the temple complex has four gates symbolising that the temple is open for everyone, no matter from which cast, creed and religion one belongs to. Each of the golden plated pillars, and domes having lotus petal leafs are fine example of modern architectural excellence. Gazing at the magnificence of the temple while taking a dip in the lake makes visitors feel the spiritual and divine charm of the temple.

Relish the sumptuous food at Langar : Like other Sikh temple, the best you can relish is its langar (the free kitchen). Taking sumptuous food while sitting with thousands of other devotees is unique experience you can have here.

Enjoy the symphony of Guruwani (the spiritual recitation) : Attending the Guruwani and the reading of Guru Granth Sahib (the holy book of Sikh) are worth relieving and making you feel the spiritual chanting.

Take the holy dip in the lake : Before you enter the holy shrine, do take the holy dip in the holy lake, called as Amrit Kund (spring of nectar).

Watch the architectural richness : Golden and marble work in whole of the temple keep you stunned thinking of the height of mixture of Hindu and Muslim modern architectural work.

Tirupati Balaji Temple

The most visited temple of India, Tirupati Balaji Temple is also of greater significance in the country. Flocked by devotees from all over the world, the Balaji Temple is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage centre. Associated deeply with many of Hindu mythologies, the temple is famous for its historic shrine of lord Venkateswar.

Well connected to other parts of the country, the famed Tirupati Balaji Temple is located in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Located on the Venkatam Hill, said to be the sporting hill of lord Vishnu, the temple is one of the richest temples of the country. The main deity worshiped at the temple is lord Venkateswar or lord Balaji, who is believed to be the incarnation of lord Vishnu, one of the most revered Hindu god.

Not to forget the intense association of several legends and mythologies with the world famed temple boasting its rich past and glory. Hindu religious texts like Puranas and Sastras has its descriptions that in the Kali Yuga one could have attained the salvation merely only by worshiping lord Venkateswar. Besides, the ancient temple built in Dravidian temple architectural style adds further significance in its glory. The 10 ft high standing figure of lord Venkateswar on a lotus pedestal embodies the best sculptural work. Worshiping before this one of the most revered deity figure in South Indian traditional style is a very sacred occasion one must visit.

Enjoy the rich culture and tradition : Visit to the world famous shrine of lord Venkateswar is full of cultural and religious celebration. Worshiping before the holy figure of lord Venkateswar lets one witness the rich South Indian culture and rich traditions.

Temple sightseeing : Besides the main temple of lord Venkateswar, there are several other temples like Papavinasanam, Vaikuntha Tirtham and Tumburu Tirtham famous for its architectural excellence and high religious significance.

Shopping : Series of shops selling handicrafts items await you once you are over with temple sightseeing. Better, you walk to Lepakshi Emporium, famous for selling handicrafts amenities at reasonable price.

Festivals : Everyday the temple gets exalted with some short of festival. Brahmotsavam, the 9-days annual festival of the temple is the best time to visit the temple as the whole town is lost in sacred touch of divinity.

Jain Temples

As the history of Jainism dates back to ancient period, numerous of Jain temples with its magnificence and rich architectural beauty have been erected in various locations of the country from time-to-time. Glued with many of historical significance, the Jain temples are the most sought after pilgrimage destination for Jain followers all over the world.

Largest among all Jain temples of India is Adinath Temples of Ranakpur (Rajasthan). Built in 15th century, this temple is also one of the most beautiful Jain temples of the country. Located in Aravalli Hills, the best one can view here is its unique architectural beauty, especially in its 1500 pillars, each having different carving and design from each other. Jain Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu (Rajasthan), dating back to 11-13th century, is one of the most popular Jain temple famous for its beautiful marble work.

Shri Shatrunjay Tirath of Palitana (Ahmedabad) is believed by Jain followers to be their eternal pilgrimage. Located on the Shatrunjay Hill, the temple houses magnificent idol of lord Adishwar. Jain Temple of Pavapuri (Bihar) is another must attended Jain pilgrimage place, about which it is said that it is the ultimate stop to get one’s sin end, as it was the place where lord Mahavira took his last breath and was cremated here around 500 BC. Some other Jain temples which have got wider popularity due to its historical and architectural significance are Shri Samet Shikhar Tirth of Giridih (Jharkhand), Rikhabdev Temple of Udaipur (Rajasthan), Shri Mahudi Tirath of Mehsana (Gujrat) and Shri Mahavirji Temple of Sawai Madhopur (Rajasthan).

Witness the architectural excellence : At numerous of magnificent temples like Adinath Temple, Dilwara Temple, Shri Shatrunjay Tirath of Palitana, best to watch is its architectural excellence dripping down in each of its carvings and designs.

Divinity awaiting you : Visiting temples and performing worships in its traditional style is one thing giving you the best way to enrich your spirit and feel the innate divinity attached to it.

Enjoy the nearby sightseeing attraction : As most of the Jain temples of the country are located at place having numerous sightseeing places, one can indulge into visiting these place after the temple tour is over.

Onam

Celebrated with great pomp and show in Kerala, Onam is the annual festival of the state. The biggest and most popular festival of Malayalee (inhabitants of Kerala), Onam is harvest festival of the state. Significant among all cast, creed and faith, the festival of Onam with its rich customs and tradition is a great cultural fiesta.

The 10-days running festival takes part in the month of Chingam (August-September), the first month of the Malayalam year. Onam is basically a harvest festival, which also finds deeper association with several of Hindu mythologies and folklore. As the widespread mythologies says, the festival marks the homecoming of demon king Mahabali. The jubilation of Onam is greatly celebrated with much of its extravagance at places like Trichur, Tiruvantapuram and Kottayam. Enjoying the cultural and religious magnificence of the festival is a wonderful joy.

Rich in its rituals, the carnival of Onam brings the affluent culture and tradition at its best. The floral arrangement (Onapookalam), the grand lunch (Payasam) which includes 21 kinds of curries and 3 types of sweets, and songs and dance are arranged to welcome the king Mahabali, as it is said that it is the one day the king visits his kingdom. The large cultural procession at Trichur and snake boat race at the Pampa river are the two most remarkable attraction of the festival, for which the festival is widely known.

Witness the world famous boat race: The mega event of boat race organised at Pampa river takes you to a wonderful realm where you see nothing but hundreds of snake boats lined up and ready to take off.

Decorate your homes: The celebration begins at home, as you would be decorating your home with flowers and rangoli at the entrance. For women and girls, the celebration encircles in wearing new clothings and preparing the grand lunch for king Mahabali

Enjoy the traditional music and dance: Traditional music and dance programme are another attraction of the festival. Dance preformed by maidens, and music by local folk artist are fine joy of cultural exploration of Kerala.

Performing Arts

Multifaceted culture and heritage of India, in true way, is the biggest asset of the country which dates thousands years back to period of earliest civilization. Blissfully, the country still preserves its rich culture and heritage in various of its forms like arts, crafts, religion, philosophy and tradition.

Performing arts, being the innate form of Indian culture and heritage, has been celebrated in the country for thousands years. Be it music, dance or theater, every form of performing art of India is known for its uniqueness and symbolise its age-old rich culture and tradition.

Music: Based on the principles of Nava Rasas (nine emotions – Love, Humour, Pathos, Anger, Heroism, Terror, Disgust, Wonder and Serenity) of Rishi Bharata, the Indian music tradition stresses upon treating Riyaj (musical practice) as devotion and worship. With the help of Raga, Tala and Shrutis, musicians evoke variety of feelings and moods before the audience. Today, divided in two strains, Carnatic (South Indian music tradition) and Hindustani (North Indian music tradition), the Indian music tradition has got its styles changed or innovated, but sustains its roots very beautifully.

Dance: Like music, traditional Indian dance form is also structured on the age-old Natya Shashtra, written around 200 AD by sage Bharata. Mythically adored Taandav dance of lord Shiva and widespread Devdasi dance constitute the solid base of rich dance form in the country. Several of popular classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, and folk dance forms like Bhangra, Bhavai, Jatra, Bihu and Santhali are today predominant part of various dance tradition of the country.

Theater: According to Natya Shashtra, origin of theater in India is a divine occurrence. The Nava Rasas (nine emotions), which are intrinsic part of the performance are meant to evoke live emotion and mood before spectators. Dance and music are two innate parts upon which success of a theatrical performance is based. Traditional theatrical performance in India deals with the dramatic representation of ancient rituals and festive occasions, which find deeper religious and spiritual significance.

Diwali

Celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains worldwide, Diwali is not only one of the most popular festivals of India, but also one of the most vibrant among all festivals of the world. Diwali – the festival of light is celebrated every year on 15th day of Ashwin month (October/November). Representing the victory of goodness over evil, the festival of Diwali is indeed an inseparable part of rich culture of India dating several thousands years back.

The 5-days long festival of Diwali (which means a row of lamps) is celebration of lights, fireworks and puddings. Many of the widely known mythologies have it that celebration dates many thousands years back. As Dussehra (one of another most popular festival of Hindus) marks the victory of Hindu God, lord Rama, over the demon king Ravana, the festival of Diwali marks the arrival of lord Rama to his home, Ayodhya. Not only Hindus, but also Sikhs and Jains all over the world celebrate the spirited fest by lightening candles and diyas (earthen lamps) to welcome the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi.

The festival of Diwali is not only about lightening diyas and enjoying fireworks. The 5-days festival is full of religious and traditional activities taking place everyday. First day of the festival is Dhan Teras (an auspicious day for shopping) and second day is Naraka Chaturdashi. The actual Diwali is on third day, when the moon in the sky is totally nil, and light of diyas and candles makes the night gleaming and full of revelry. The 4th and 5th day of the celebration mark Padwa and Bhayiduj.

Brighten the festive lamp: Brightening diyas and candles, the most significant element of the festival, is great joy on this auspicious day. Decorate every nooks of your home with lightening diyas.

Enjoy the fireworks: Fireworks have been an innate part of the festival. Available in different varieties, bursting crackers along with whole of your family form the most favourite part of the festival for children.

Shop shop and shop: Never miss shopping on the most auspicious day for shopping, the 1st day of the fest (Dhanteras). The best buy are household items, especially utensils and jeweleries.

Savour prasads and puddings: Relishing Prasads (offering to Gods) made of sweet dishes (laddoo, barfi, etc), and traditional puddings prepared in home are worth heightening the festive zeal.

Indian Cuisine

The 9 days of celebration of Navratras are believed to be the most auspicious events taking place in all Hindu cultural and religious ceremonies. The first day of the Hindu month, Ashwin (September end/October) marks the beginning of the festival. Navratras, literally meaning as “nine nights” are dedicated to nine forms of goddess Shakti/Durga. Due to being very powerful for spiritual upliftment, the 9 days of Navratras are of greater significance for Hindus all around the world.

The first three days of the Navratras celebration are dedicated to goddess Kumari, Parvati and Kali. Symbolising the various figures of woman, such as wife, mother and angry hag, the three goddesses are worshiped on 1st, 2nd and 3rd of the Navratras. 4th - 6th days are dedicated to goddess Laxmi, the goddess of peace, prosperity and wealth. On 7th and 8th day, goddess of learning, Saraswati is invoked for giving enlightening to her ward and devotees. The 9th and last day, which is the most important day among all nine days, nine forms of goddess Durga are invoked, and Kanya Pujan (offering feast and gifts to nine virgin young girls) is performed in households.

The 9 days of rituals of Navratras are celebrated with intense devotion all over the world by Hindus. Many of the devotees invoke the goddess by fasting for total 9 days. Each of the nights of Navratras becomes a celebration for devotees as functions based on dance and music are organised. The joyous and sacred celebration of Navratras culminates on its next day (10th day) when Dussehra (Vijayadashami) is celebrated all over by Hindus to commemorate the victory of goodness over evil.

Attain the spiritual upliftment: The entire 9 days are believed to be highly powerful for spiritual upliftment. Worshiping various forms of goddess, and attaining some mental peacefulness is the best one can do.

Watch the dance and music programme: Musical and dance programme organised every night during the Navratras are interesting to attend. Must to watch are the Garba and Rasa dance of Gujrat

Shop shop and shop: Never miss shopping on the most auspicious day for shopping, the 1st day of the fest (Dhanteras). The best buy are household items, especially utensils and jeweleries.

Enjoy the Melas: At many places Melas (fairs) are organised, walking to which is very enjoyable. The colourful and crowded shopping and food stalls are best you can glue.

1970 AMC Hornet AMX

This original AMC 1970 Hornet AMX Ambassador Javelin Rebel Shop Service Manual Supplement is prepared by American Motors Corporation, Automotive Technical Service for use by the dealer's mechanics to use servicing all models of AMC cars in conjunction with the 1969 Shop manual. This is the preliminary edition and oly covers the changes from the 1969 models.

Contains detailed step by step instructions with pictures and illustrations to repair and service all Hornet (01 Series), Rebel (10 Series), AMX (30 Series), Javelin (70 Series), and Ambassador (80 Series) cars. Covering 6 and 8 Cyl engines.

Sections include - vehicle identification - general information, maintenance, engine, cooling, electrical, fuel - carburetion, emission control - exhaust, clutch, manual transmission, torque - command transmissions, brakes and wheels, axle - propeller shaft, steering, suspension, weather eye system, air conditioning, bodies - panels - fenders - hoods - bumpers, door - rear quarter trim, electric windows, deck cover - liftgates - tailgate - luggage rack, wind shield - wipers, instrument panel, seat assemblies, headlining - vinyl covered roof - exterior decals, fleet equipment, wiring diagrams.

1961 AMC Rambler

The 1961 Ambassador V-8 was billed as America's first compact luxury car. The front-end styling was European in design.

The engine was an overhead valve V-8 of 327 cubic-inch, hydraulic lifters and produced 250 horsepower with automatic transmission.

Airliner reclining seats adjust to five comfortable positions and even make into twin beds.

Other options include air conditioning , power steering and brakes, auto transmission, transistor powered radio and fender skirts.

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