Central India Holidays
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Can
the land of Khajuraho be any less exotic than the famous temples? Madhya Pradesh
is not called the "heart of India" only because of its location in
the centre of the country. It has been home to the cultural heritage of Hindhuism,
Buddhism, Jainism and Islam. innumerable monuments, exquisitely carved temples,
stupas, forts and palaces are dotted all over the State. The heart of India. The sight-seer's paradise, with many a beautiful surprise. Temptations, shall we say? Forts, that still echo past glories. Palaces, that still shimmer with grandeur. Love, still in passionate embrace in stone. Forests with wildlife in natural display. Fairs and festivals which are a riot of colour and song. Madhya Pradesh Tourism brings it all to you in its most enticing, enchanting, enthralling best.
The natural beauty of the state is equally varied. Consisting largely of a plateau, the state has everything - awesome mountain ranges, meandering rivers, and miles and miles of dense forests. The rich folk culture and tribal traditions of this fascinating state, are manifested in the umpteen exuberant festivities, and Statue of Rani Jhansi, Gwaliorfairs of its colourful people.
One
of the best parts about Madhya Pradesh is its accessibility. Bordered by seven
states, it is equally close to major tourist destinations in the north, south,
east and west. Whether you are in Delhi, Mumbai (Bombay), Chennai (Madras) or
Calcutta, you're never very far from Madhya Pradesh.The most famous Sanchi stupa was built by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, then governor of Ujjain. Bhojpur, in the same district is famous for its incomplete but marvelous Shiva temple, built by legendary Parmar King of Dhar, Raja Bhoj (1010-53).Khajuraho in Chhatarpur district is renowned the world over for its unique temples. Built by Chandela rulers from 950-1050 A.D., in a truly inspired burst of creativity these temples are a unique gift to the world.
Orchha in Tikamgarh district is a medieval legacy in stone built by Bundela rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries. This land is hallowed by the memories of the great warrior Chhatrasal who illumined the pages of history by his heroic deeds.Madhya Pradesh has a number of important pilgrimage centres. While Ujjain and Omkareshwar have special significance due to Shrines having two of the twelve jyotirlingas, Maheshwar, Mandleshwar, Amarkantak, Hoshangabad are also important in their own rights.
Madhya
Pradesh has produced great men and women who are held in high esteem due to
their great deeds. India's immortal poet-dramatist Kalidas belonged to Ujjain
and great musician Tansen to Gwalior. Bravery of great women like Durgawati,
Avantibai, Kamlapati and Devi Ahilya Bai is inscribed in golden letters in history.
In the freedom struggle, many movements were successfully launched in Madhya Pradesh coinciding with the Non-Cooperation Movement and Quit India Movement. Flag Satyagraha of Jabalpur in 1923, Salt Satyagraha of 1930 in Jabalpur and Jangle Satyagraha started by tribals are the notable movements. Almost all parts of the state were active in freedom struggle, though at different times.
