Leh Palace

History of India No Comments »

Leh_palaceThe region of Ladakh must be one of the most beautiful places in not only India but also in world. Ladakh is simple, beautiful and mesmerising. It has yet to be affected by malices’ of modern world and that has helped it in keeping its purity intact. Ladakh is a dream travel destination for many tourists who want to try something different and adventurous. If you have any questions regarding how to reach here then you can take direct flights from major cities of India to Leh and then you will need to get to Ladakh via roads.

One of the most famous places to see here is Leh palace. It was built in 17th century by King Singe Namgyal. Leh palace has always attracted tourists from far and wide. Though, the palace is in a decrepit condition yet it has lost none of its charm. In fact, the journey to this place itself is so adventurous that you will be forced to relish this experience forever. Leh palace is located in the Himalayas and that lends it a special aura. King had built this palace as royal residence but when the royal family moved to Stok, it was left as it is.

The Leh palace is uninhibited but is maintained by the Indian Government’s Archaeological Conservation Organization. The palace had total nine stories and all of them are in ruins now. The palace is located in the lap of Namgyal hill and on its right is famous Victory tower. The prime features of the place are overhanging wooden balconies and massive buttressed walls. Build in medieval Tibetan architecture, the palace has an old world charm about it. Though not in best shape yet you cannot help but compliment this beautiful structure.

Kanjeevaram Saree

Indian Fashion No Comments »

kanjeevaramSo you love wearing saree? If so, you just cannot afford to miss eternal charm of kanjeevaram silk saree. These sarees are hugely popular in almost all the parts of India as well as abroad. Kanjeevaram saree are created in a small town known as Kanchi or Kanchipuram near southern major city of Bangalore. The saree is named after the city in which it is produced. Kanjeevaram saree has a loyal fan following and every Indian woman wants to have at least one kanjeevaram in her wardrobe. The craftsmen do a marvellous job of making this saree using finest silk available in the state of Tamil Nadu. This silk used is extremely durable and sari normally has bold and bright colours.

Kanjivaram saree is considered as an amazing outfit and wearing it lends charm and grace to the wearer. If you look closely at these sarees, you will be mesmerised with the choices available in designs, textures and colours. Several combinations of coloured threads are used in its making. Furthermore, what makes Kanjeevaram very special is embroidery work also known as zari work. The zari work is elaborate and exquisite. Motifs are also used heavily in these sarees. These motifs are inspired from paintings, palaces and Pallava temples along withkanji scenes from mythological stories.

Contemporary patterns also include tribal designs giving kanjeevaram sarees more variety and appeal. As far as price range is concerned, kanjeevaram sarees are considered expensive. The price hovers in range of Rs. 2000 to Rs. 50,000. The cost is also determined by amount of zari work. Usually, it takes 10-12 days to prepare simple kanjeevaram saree but if you want decorative ones then you will have to wait for almost 20 days.

Indian Leather Crafts

Indian Fashion, Industry No Comments »

The history of leather craft in India goes a long way. According to historians, the roots of leather craft in India lie in Indus valley civilization. Even if you read ancient texts, you will find numerous references of animal skin. Remember, those pictures and mythological serials where sages used to sit on deerskins and meditate? In the modern age we find usage of leather in dresses, jackets and boots but during earlier eras, it was also used in making caps, bags, saddles, armour etc. The popularity of Indian leather craft is not just restricted within Indian boundaries. India is a large exporter of leather works to different parts of the world and this craft is hugely appreciated. This tradition has continued to flourish in rural parts of India where hide from cattle and camel is used to make different popular items. Different regions have different products to offer.

Some of popular leather items that are made in India are jackets, belts, shoes, stuffed toys, lampshades, wallets, bags and pouches etc. These products are exported to foreign market in huge quantities and earn good revenue for their Indian makers. Indian leather craft industry is quite huge and caters to local as well as global needs. Region wise, if places like Jaisalmer and Bikaner are famous for making decorative saddles then West Bengal is known for decorated leather products. Rajasthan has always been a production hub for decorated leather items. If you are looking for beautifully designed lamp and lampshades you need look no further than this dessert state.

Madhya Pradesh holds an edge in crafting embroidered red leather items whereas Karnataka excels in producing leather products painted with mythological pictures. Most of these products have geometric patterns and traditional designs. Kashmir is also famous for ornamental leather products. Similarly, different states offer some other beautiful leather products.

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