Life Breezy

A leafless tree, no matter where easily draws our attention. Some people take it along in their stride as they move on while some others stop for a while to look at it. Although it’s hard to define what kind of thought goes on in the minds of people at the sight but two things I’m sure in connection are that for thinkers, philosophers and scientists it carries some special meanings and reasoning while for the common people like me it may or may not be a special sight.

A leafless Tree

Not too long ago, I came across this leafless tree (picture alongside) at the Padmapukur Park, South City in Kolkata while I was busy completing a project for our Life Breezy’s YouTube Channel. But all my advantages went for a toss when I saw it. As soon as I saw it for the first time it demanded my attention. I switched off my camera and inched closer towards it to scrutinise it properly with my naked eyes. My curiosity got aroused and I sat down on one of the benches nearby the tree to view it from a better angle from the top to the bottom.

Interestingly, all the other trees around were laden with leaves and greenery except the one that gathered my attention. The cooler breeze blowing from the inner pond of the park were shaking the branches and leaves of other trees vigorously and they were responding to the rhythm of the breeze in full spirit. Their happiness was reflecting in their vigorous to and fro movement along with the breeze.

However, my mind was still occupied with the thought of the leafless tree and while I was sitting face to face with it I wanted to find more about it, anyhow. I thought it might be one of those species of trees that bear no leaves during a particular season of the year. If it would have been so I would have no complaint in my heart considering the fact that it would regain its leaves in the future. However, my worst fear was that what if maybe due to some diseases it might have lost its greenery. The entire evening array of thoughts like these surfaced and disappeared from my mind.

Unfortunately, there was no one to clear my doubt about the leafless tree. I tried my best to speak to the security person at the park but he answered with a smile that he was in no position to answer my query since he has joined his job recently. My curiosity was at its peak and I stood under the tree to scrutinise it properly. In no time, a couple of young men also joined me to find out what caught my attention at that point of time. Soon a few more curious passers-by stood beside me and started staring at the upward direction with me. As soon as I noticed this, to my mind, I felt a bit awkward and embarrassed discovering the crowd gathering around me. Of them, a young boy held my hand politely and asked me, “Uncle, kya hua (what happened)?” Not expecting this question to be thrown at me at once, I mumbled in a hurry, “Kuch nahi beta (nothing son)!”.

After this, I made my way back home, uploaded my video to YouTube during the night but my curiosity remained an unanswered query. If anything, I promised myself in a silence that to clear my doubt I would get back to the venue once again in the next season expecting to find the tree regaining its lost greenery. Indeed, that would bring a grand smile on my face and melt all my worries away. That said the decision for the time being turned out to be a life-changer for me.

Santiniketan also pronounced as Shantiniketan is a great weekend destination to take a break beneath the gaze of greenery. As a small town near Bolpur In the Bardhaman district, it raises the bar for travellers and trippers by offering a totally restful ambience. The words ‘Shanti’ and ‘Niketan’ in English means ‘Peace’ and ‘House or Abode’ respectively. Besides, celebrations of festivals like Poush Mela and Vasanta Utsav draw huge numbers of visitors here every year.

Attractions

Upashna Griha, Santiniketan

The name was chosen by Debendranath Tagore (Rabindranath’s father) when he built his ideal home in the open natural environment. And today, Santiniketan is a well-known name and a visit to the place rejuvenates the memory of our beloved poet Rabindranath Tagore. The colourful soil of the region, the picture perfect houses, Upasana Mandir, education Centre make it an ideal place for a wonderful weekend destination in the West Bengal State.

The Uttarayan Complex hosts five significant houses of the poet where he lived namely the Udichi, Shamali, Konarka, Udayana and Punassha. Besides, there is a museum which comprises of the things used by the poet, the replica of Noble Prize Medal, precious pictures, etc. The noteworthy attractions in the Santiniketan campus include Chhatimtala, Amrakunja, Upasnaguha and the vintage car used by the poet. Moreover, some of the popular spots that draw a crowd are the Deer Park, Shilpa Gram, Sriniketan (3 km from Santiniketan), etc.

Remarkably there are many touring spots centering around Santiniketan in Bolpur. To visit these places one needs to have around three days time in hand. On the first day, one may hire an auto or rickshaw to visit the Uttarayan Complex. Here, as mentioned above, one would find Rabindra Museum, Bichitra, Konarka. Shamali, Punassha, Udichi, Udayana houses. On the same day, one may hire a four wheeler to visit the Ballavpur Deer Park, Sriniketan, and Amar Kutir. On the second day, Basuli Temple at Nanoor and the three Sakti Peethas including, Kankalitala at the Kopai riverbank (7 km from Santiniketan), Devi Nandikeshwari at Saninthia, and Labhpur could be visited. Finally, on the third day, one may visit Mama Bhagne hill (at Dubrajpur), Bakreshwar and Massanjore Dam in Dumka district.

Nearby attractions

Banjara Hut and Bakreswar are the noteworthy nearby attractions. Banjara Hut located fourteen kilometres away from the Santiniketan. The experience of travelling through the forest has its own excitement. The best time to visit here is during the monsoon and winter.

To get there

Plenty of trains available for Bolpur from the Howrah and Sealdah Stations of Kolkata. The Shantiniketan Express departs from the Howrah Station at 10:10am and reaches 12:25pm. Besides, the Vishwabharati Express departs at 16:40pm and reaches 19:50pm.

The Kanchenjunga Express and Uttar Banga Express depart from the Sealdah Station at 6:35am and at 19:35pm respectively.

Lodging

The best lodging option is the Santiniketan Tourist Lodge of the WBTDC. The tariff for the non-AC small double bedroom is RS 900, the non-AC large double bedroom is RS 1100, AC double bedroom is RS 2000 and AC deluxe double bed is RS 2500. Other lodging options are Ranga Mati Tourist Lodge, Bolpur Lodge, Hotel Royal Bengal, etc.

Tarapith located in the Birbhum district of the West Bengal State is popular for goddess Tara Maa Temple. Devotees from all around the globe gather here for darshan (view) of the mother goddess. The cremation ground located beside the temple is significant because several saints in the past earned Siddhi (enlightenment) here after going through hard penance. One such saint popular in the region is Bhamakhepa whose stories are popular in every corner of West Bengal State.

Attractions

One of the main attractions of the Tarapith is the Tara Maa Temple. It gathers a huge number of devotees round the year. Visitors have to queue up either in General queue or VIP queue to enter the temple.

Tarapith Temple

The temple is built around two hundred years ago by Jagannath Rai. The cremation ground beside the temple is noted as the Sadhana Sthal or the meditation place of the popular saint Bamakhepa. Notably, on the second day of Shravan month, Yajnas are performed here every year. Several devotees gather here during the time. The famous saint was born at Attagram. Another tourists attraction Nalhati located twelve kilometres from the Rampurhat Station. It is one of the fifty-one Shakti Peethas. Even though the Devi Lalteshwari Temple is small in size but it's another spot that gathers tourist round the year.

Nearby attraction

Bakreswar is a tour hours journey by bus from the Tarapith. It’s also rated one of the fifty-one Shakti Peethas. Apart from the Bakreswar Temple and Shiva temples the region is popular for its eight hot springs. The waters of the hot springs believed to have the divine power to heal skin diseases. Moreover, Suri another popular spot is located two kilometres away.

To get there

Rampurhat Railway Station located eight kilometres away is the nearest station of Tarapith. Several trains are available from the Howrah and Sealdah Stations. The Howrah-Ajimganj Ganadevta Express departs at 6:35 minutes every day. Besides, Howrah-Rampurhat Express departs at 11:55 minutes every day and the Howrah-Malda Town Intercity Express via Rampurhat departs at 15:25 minutes every day.

Besides, Sealdah-Rampurhat Intercity Express departs (Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday) at 9:05 minutes and Sealdah-Rampurhat Express departs at 7:25 minutes every day except Sundays.

To Stay

The Raktajaba Tourist Lodge of Benfish, West Bengal Tourism located opposite to Sonar Bangla Hotel is an ideal space for lodging. Rent ranges here from RS 600 to RS 2500. Besides, several private hotels and lodges available here as well like the Kalyani Lodge, Hotel Yashoda International, Hotel Parboti Lodge, Hotel Classic, Amantran Resort, etc.

Will I, won’t I? Thinking about spending a weekend or a few hours of a day at the backdrop of a rural atmosphere really don’t need a reason considering the plethora it offers to make you feel special. Well, this time around we are not mentioning about a far away nestled destination but a spot that lies close to the Kolkata metropolis at Rajendrapur village in Chandipur.

Attractions

Playful ducks on pond water

Sundar Gram as the name suggests is a beautiful village with a natural appeal. The deep shade of greenery, the cool water shades, and the blue sky overhead give it the feel of live picture perfect scenery churned out from brushes of a master painter. Besides, the widespread paddy fields, long queues of palm trees, ponds and groves promise a fun-filled weekend for nature lovers. Spending a day here would provide you with the opportunity to be an eyewitness of the early sunrise and sunset. The sunshine of the early morning piercing the serenity all around gives a kick start for a long day ahead. The cacophony of birds, the fluttering of colourful butterflies and the day to day life of the villagers would introduce you to something different which your heart cherished for long. You may take a leisure walk in and around the village during the day if you want to be a part of these creative pleasures.

Well, most of the houses in the village are simple huts made of mud and haystacks. The villagers get busy with their daily chores right from the strike of the clock at dawn. To put in simple words they are hardworking people with a simple lifestyle. You may find some of them busy in their fields while others on their boats with fishnets. If you want to relax for a while you may comfort yourself beside a pond and watch the playful ducks performing various types of tricks in water. Overall, it is a wonderful place to spend a day or two in the natural shade of nature.

To get there

The spot is located 32 kilometres away from Kolkata and it takes less than two hours to cover the distance by the roadway. Booking a car for the spot or travelling in your own vehicle guarantees a hassle free journey. However, if you’re planning for a few hours visit on any given day in the region then reaching there by bus from Kolkata is a good alternative. By bus, you need to get down at the Ghatakpukur or Chandipur and then hire a rickshaw to the spot.

The driving direction is Science City to Basanti Highway. Next, you need to headway straight to Ghatakpukur to reach Chandipur. Turning right from Chandipur would lead you to Sundar Gram.

To Stay

Three cottage houses available for lodging here. Although these appear to be ordinary mud houses from outside the interiors of these are equipped with all modern amenities. The names of these houses are Akash, Batash, and Fagun. These sound very close to the natural elements of nature. Significantly, Akash and Batash have both the AC and non-AC rooms and the rent of these vary from RS 1450 to RS 1800. Notably, Fagun has only nonAC rooms and its rent is RS 1250.

If you’re planning to spend a day or two here then it’s advisable to book a room in advance. The address is given below:

Sundar Gram

Rajendrapur,

Malancha,

North 24 Parganas,

West Bengal.

Sparrow is a social bird and this is one reason why it loves to be with the humans. Out of the different varieties that exist, the one that lives close to the humans is the house sparrow. It’s found in most of the countries of the world.

Given its reputation, it’s common for the house sparrow to make its nests in the human dwelling units either at the ventilators or on the walls of buildings. Like any other birds, it puts a hard labour to build it out of dry hay, sticks, rags, cotton, etc. Considering its size it takes a number of days to craft the nest for its family.

A Sparrow sitting outside glass window

To bring out a comparison, the sight of the bird is more common in cities than in towns and villages. In truth, the rapid pace of modernisation has paved the way for high-rise buildings and sky scrapper in the cities. As a result of this, the ventilators of houses disappeared. This, in turn, makes it work hard to find a suitable space to build its nest. If it doesn’t find a suitable ventilator then it builds its nest in the holes of walls or between the bricks of old buildings.

A baby sparrow

However, the heartening fact is that the bird is decreasing in numbers day by day. There is no denying that sighting a sparrow has become rare not only in cities but also in villages and town. Many also feel the exact reason for its decreasing numbers is an unsolved mystery. According to ornithologists or environmentalist, the excess use of insecticides is one of the reasons. A chick (baby sparrow) relies on a high protein diet for its overall development. So, they feed on a variety of insects to comply with this natural requirement. The usage of insecticides and pesticides create a big scarcity of food (insects) for these tiny living creatures. Besides, the grown up sparrow needs a rich supplement of high protein food as well. And in the scarcity of insects it feeds on available seeds. Conditions get worse when it consumes seeds that contain a high level of insecticides on them. Not only it indirectly affects the baby birds but also cuts short the life span of the grown-up birds.

As a normal human being with limited knowledge on environment and its proceedings, we are not aware of the actual cause behind the drastic decrease in the numbers of the bird. However, we could make out that the rise of tall structures has created a scarcity of space for its nest. Then, the grasses in the housings and complexes are often trimmed to keep them short so that these could arrest the visual appeal. In the process, the grasses are cut before they bear seeds that insects feed on. Again, insects are the natural food of sparrow. So, the early trimming of grasses disturbs the natural cycle to a great extent. Moreover, ponds are also the breeding grounds for a variety of insects but these are also filled up to catch up with the need of human dwelling units. All these have directly or indirectly led to the decrease in the number of insects and in turn in the number of birds.

Last but not the least are the cell phone towers. The radiations from these towers not only have an adverse affect on the health of humans but also on plants, animals, and birds. And in a nutshell, all these reasons add up to the decrease in the number of the birds.

As humans, we are also deeply attached to this bird and it’s high time now to realise the present condition and think about its well-being and conversation. Even if it appears to be a gamble we should be morally prepared to take the risk. In 2012, the house sparrow was declared the State Bird of Delhi by the then state government. Even though the incident at that moment left many wondering why? The answer was simple, firstly because it was a little effort of kindness from the mankind towards a bird that finds its happiness in the company of humans. And secondly, because it was a noble move in the direction of protection and conservation of the bird. At this point what we need is a little bit of more awareness before it’s too late to recover the damage.

According to a survey, (carried out by us in the recent past) a huge number of travellers and trippers are opting for budget weekend destinations. To put this in other words, most of us are giving priority to shorter and more frequent destinations these days. And, interestingly, keeping the trend in mind this week we have decided to come up with a value destination located within a couple of hundred kilometres (170 kilometres approximately) away from the Kolkata metropolis.

Deul located in the Bardhaman district of the West Bengal State holds its own significance as a valuable weekend getaway. This is more so because it relates closely to most of the significant things considered as the foundation of human life. The past glory of history, the thought of philosophy and of course the flair of romance still prevails in the breeze, soil and water of the region. Besides, its location at the banks of the Ajoy river earns it the fame of a picture perfect destination. Significantly, the name Deul is originated from the Temple of Ichai Ghosh or the Ichai Ghosher Deul.

Attractions

The temple built of burnt bricks is a significant structure of the Middle Age Bengal Era. This is one reason it’s under the protection of the State Archaeology Department. Deul Park located near Panagarh of the Bardhaman district has become a popular spot for travellers and trippers in no time. However, for the locals, the park is still popular by the name of Ichai Ghosher Deul. At one side of the park, Ajoy river is flowing with dignity while the other side is covered with the deep dense forest.

Deul Park, Bardhaman

The park comprises of hundred acres of land and it has enough activities to keep the visitors busy. Beginning from all the entertainment stuff like boating, toy train rides, swings to dairy farming and horticulture garden all situated inside the park. And one can be a part of all these excitement by paying subsidised rates. Notably, the entry fee is RS 10 and the boating rate is RS 15 per person. There is another factor that adds to the attraction here. During the winter season, the park appears more attractive with a variety of colourful flowers decorating the various corners of the park. However, the main attraction is the Ichai Ghoser Temple. The architecture of the temple represents the class of most of the Bishnupur Temples.

Nearby attractions

Kenduli Gram (village) is located five kilometres away from here. Jaideva the popular writer of Gita Govinda was born here. The popular Jaidev Kenduli Mela (Fair) is organised here every year for three days during Poush Sankranti.

To get there

Trains like the Black Diamond Express, Toofan Express, Coalfield express, etc. available from the Howrah Station for the Panagarh Station. Deul Park is located thirty kilometres away from the Station. A car hire from the station to the park may cost RS 600 to RS 700.

Buses are available from the Dharmatala bus terminus. Visitors may board any bus going to Durgapur or Asansol and get down at the Darjeeling More. From here, it would take one hour to reach Deul Park in a hired car.

Lodging

Deul Park Eco Resort is one of the ideal places for lodging inside Deul Park. The rent for two bedroom cottage is RS 1200. Besides, rent for the AC room is RS 800, rent for the non AC room is RS 600 and for the non AC Deluxe is RS 2000. However, the rate changes from time to time and varies from one season to another.

Kite refers to the ‘Bird of Prey’ and it also refers to the light toy object meant for flying in the sky. Even though both are different and should not be compared but then there exist some similarities between the two. As does the long-winged kite bird flies high in the sky with elegance, pride and grace so do the light paper object kite. Both attract the viewer’s attention span soaring high up in the sky and carry a certain degree of vanity in their traits.

Out of all the exciting childhood sports kite flying was once considered one amongst the favourites. Today in the midst of so many indoor and outdoor sports it has neither wiped out completely nor lost its charm. Perhaps the uniqueness of the sport is one of the main reasons behind its never-ending popularity. Unlike other sports, it is the only sport played in the wind space under the open blue sky. Even today, it is a popular activity in most of the countries of the world including India. It has not only the charisma to attract anyone but it also guarantees a full-fledged fun and entertainment for some leisure hours. Besides, it always seemed fascinating to the humans because it relates closely to the innocent idea or dream of the humans to fly like a free bird in the vast empty horizon some day.

It’s believed (as the elders say) that kite flying activity has been the companion of humans since ancient times. However, those days’ kites were made from plant leaves. Later, materials like paper and plastics came into use to replace the usage of leaves. Along with it kites of different shapes, sizes and volume began to occupy the sky space. Not to forget weather always plays a dominant role in the kite flying sport. A clear sky overhead and a stable breeze is the most favourable condition for the sport.

Pieces of lightweight paper and a pair of thin bamboo sticks are used to make kites. Two tiny holes are made at the top and at the bottom (at a palm distance) so that it could be tied to a thread providing it balance in the wind. A kite is flown by holding the charkhi (a small roller-shaped object that has the thread) or by holding the thread by the fingers. Holding the thread with the fist and moving it up and down and vice verso with slight jerks set the kite in momentum with the wind. While it may sound easy but trust me it isn’t that easy for a beginner.

A particular day or two of the year is reserved for the celebration of Kite festival in most of the countries of the world. Writing about my state West Bengal, people here enjoy the kite flying activity on several occasions like the Vishwakarma Puja, Durga Puja, Republic Day (26th of January), Saraswati Puja, Makar Sankranti, etc. Vishwakarma Puja celebration in Kolkata is marked with the kite flying activity. It provides another opportunity for the kite lovers here to roll their fingers on the kites (popularly termed as Ghudi), thread (Manja) and charkhi (also termed as Latai here). Long queues of crowds are found in almost all the kite shops of the city a day before the event. The kite fliers irrespective of any age wait eagerly for this special day to enjoy the kite flying activity.

Kite Flying

From the early morning to late evening almost all the housetops and terraces of residential buildings, apartments, etc., get crowded with the kite flying enthusiasts. Although the sun continues to beat down but you know what, it’s the family time and the fun time as well in the city. Every corner of the sky gets covered with colourful kites and some of these have special names like Mookhpora, Petkati, Ghoyla, Mombaati, Chapraas, Tokkal, etc. Each time the thread of a flying kite is cut by an opponent kite flier the loud scream of ‘Bhokatta’ piercing the wind reaches the ears. Along with it, bells and drums are beaten in tandem to commemorate the victory. It’s one of a kind experience altogether. Being born and brought up in the Kolkata city I have been an active participant in such festive sports for so many years now. Even kite Flying League Competitions are held at the Maidan Grounds of the Kolkata City during the season.

Kite flying has been around forever but it never qualified to be called a smart hobby in the true sense by any measure. From time to time unwanted occurrences gave the sport a great setback. Although as a precaution elders often recommend to fly kites in open parks but seldom these safety measures are overlooked by the participants in the sport. Often people flying kites from open terraces, rooftops or children running after to catch landing kites face mishap. And sometimes innocent by walkers of the streets get unwanted bruise and cuts from the sharp threads of landing kites. All these goes against the spirit of the sport.

It’s understood that during festivities we cannot hold ourselves back from participating in the sport. In one way we may be right because at least the event brings back cheers to even grumpy faces. However, in a hurry to make the most of every moment we unknowingly become the cause for others worry. A little bit of caution from our side would go a long way to celebrate the event in a delightful manner. Well, if we feel adventurous during such occasions and want to dip our feet into kite flying we must make sure to headway for a nearby park or to an open ground to be on the safer side.

Kalasalingam University is rated one of the top premier institutes in South India. Located sixty kilometers away from Madurai it provides an excellent opportunity for admission in B. Tech, M. Tech, and B. Ed along with other wide range of courses. Interested candidates may apply for admission until 30th of May, 2016. Candidates would be selected on the basis of Joint Entrance Examination.

The institute is providing admission in the B. Tech Course in the following subjects:

1) Automobile Engineering, 2) Biotechnology, 3) Bio-Medical Engineering, 4) Chemical Engineering, 5) Civil Engineering, 6) Computer Science and Engineering, 7) Electronics and Communications Engineering, 8) Electrical and Electronics Engineering, 9) Electronics and Instrumentation Engineering, 10) Food Technology, 11) Information Technology, 12) Information and Communication Technology, 13) Mechanical Engineering, and 14) Manufacturing Engineering. Candidates may take admission in these courses through B. Tech lateral Entry as well.

B. Tech Courses for the deaf and dumb candidates are as follows:

1) Civil Engineering, 2) Computer Science and Engineering, 3) Information Technology, and 4) Mechanical Engineering.

Admission in M. Tech courses available on the following subjects:

Courses

1) Automotive System Engineering, 2) Biotechnology, 3) Computer Application, 4) Computer Science and Engineering, 5) Control and Instrumentation Engineering, 6) Construction Engineering and Management, 7) Digital Communication and Network Engineering, 8) Embedded System and Technology, 9) Energy Engineering, 10) Engineering Design, 11) Environmental Engineering, 12) Industrial Safety Engineering, 13) Information Assurance and Security, 14) Information Technology, 15) Manufacturing Engineering, 16) Mobile Communication and Computing, 17) Nanotechnology, 18)Network Engineering, 19) Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, 20) Power Electronics and Drives, 21) Power System Engineering, 22) Process Control and Automation, 23) Renewable Energy Technology, 24) Robotics and Automation, 25) Software Engineering, 26) Software Engineering, 27) Thermal Engineering, 28) Transportation Engineering and Management, and 29) VLSI Design.

Admission in MBA courses available in the following subjects:

1) MBA (Banking and Insurance, Finance, Human Resource, Marketing Systems, Logistics, Production, Supply Chain Management. 2) MBA Actuarial Science, 3) MSW.

Regular and Lateral entry admissions are available in MCA Courses for the candidates. Admission is available here for some other courses as well. These courses are BA (English Literature), BBA, BSC Computer Science, BSC Information Technology, BCA, MSC Microbial Technology, MSC Psychology, MSC English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biotechnology.

Required Qualification

For B. Tech Courses forty-five percent marks in 10+2 or Higher Secondary examination with Physics, chemistry and Mathematics subjects. For B. Tech Lateral Entry forty-five percent marks in Science and Mathematics along with Diploma Course.

For admission in B Arch courses (10+2) fifty percent marks in Physics, and chemistry. Besides, candidates must secure forty percent marks in Architecture National Aptitude Test.

For admission in M Tech courses, candidates must have Engineering/Technology Graduate degree in the respective subject. For MBA candidates must be Graduates in any stream. For Admission in MCA courses, candidates must have passed 10+2 or have to be a Graduate with Mathematics as the subject. For MSW and MSC (Psychology) candidates need to be a Graduate in any stream. For MSC courses in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Pharmaceuticals Chemistry, Microbial Technology candidates need to be a Graduate in their respective subjects.

For admission in BA (English) and BBA courses, candidates must have secured fifty percent marks in 10+2 or Higher Secondary Examination. For admission in BSC and BCA courses candidates must have secured fifty percent marks in 10+2 or Higher Secondary along with mathematics as a subject.

Application Process

Candidates need to apply from www.kalasalingam.ac.in website. Application fee of RS 600 should be deposited in post offices listed on the website. However, candidates may purchase the application form and prospectus directly from the university. Besides, application form could be purchased by a demand draft of RS 650. The result of the entrance examination would be declared on 3rd of June, 2016 and counseling would begin from 7th of June, 2016. As mentioned before the last date for application submission is 30th of May, 2016. For more detailed information visit www.admissions.kalasalingam.ac.in.

Self-employment has an edge over other jobs or professions because it tends to eliminate the degree of risk factors to a greater extent. However, the rule of the thumb is before choosing a job or professional career one should consider all the pros or cons associated with it. In comparison with the past. today a lot of positive changes have taken place in every field and the job, profession or the service sector is not at all untouched by it. And as a result of this gradual transition, the demand for the accounting and taxation as a career is at its peak. One thing that speaks in volume about this career path is that its demand was there in the past as it is now and hopefully it would be soaring up to the sky limits in the future as well.

Nowadays, awareness among people, in general, has increased manifold. Therefore, people beginning from lower middle class to big business tycoons everyone wants to pay their income tax voluntarily and live in peace. The fact indeed, craving up the need for specialized tax consultants and e-accountants. It is worthwhile to note here that in the past the scope was only limited to the lawyers, cost accountants and chartered accountants. However, now the opportunity is available to graduates. A graduate with a little bit of training can do this job proficiently. To peruse a career in this field preferably one needs to have knowledge in accounting and tax.

PCAT Course

The Bengal Tax Counsel Institute has been conducting the Professional Certification in Accounting and Taxation (PCAT) course for more than a decade and a half now in Kolkata. Graduates from the Law or Commerce stream may take admission for the course. The course is available for professionals as well. The one year PCAT course duration consists of the vat, cst, income service tax, e-tds, e-filing along with computer packages like tally, etc. The course fee is RS 21,000 which could be paid in lump sum during admission or in small amounts on instalment basis. Candidates may work as accountants during continuation of the course or as tax consultants after the completion of the course.

The institute takes admission twice in a calendar year in the months of June and November. The last date for admission is 30th June 2016. Application form for admission is available from the institute office at RS 50. The application form is also available for download at the given below website which could be deposited at the institute office along with RS 50.

Contact details

The contact details and address are given below:

Bengal Tax Counsel,

11, Ananda Palit Road,

Kolkata – 700014

Phone: 033 2249 5962

Website: www.bengaltaxcounsel.com

For queries related to admission or any other details, one may contact the institute in person or visit the website.

The initiative of the Indian Government made it possible to declare 21st June as the International Yoga Day. Last year, the day was celebrated by almost 171 countries of the world. However, before the annual event, several initiatives were taken by the government to make the event popular to everyone. Several workshops and programs were scheduled and executed at state levels a month before the actual event. Besides, donations were forwarded by the government to the institutes, NGOs, and clubs that carried on the noble work of spreading awareness among the masses about Yoga since their inception. Moreover, plans were in the pipeline to make physical activities compulsory at the academic school level.

Career in Yoga

It is worthwhile to mention here that once people had doubts to accept Yoga-Ayurveda and even Homeopathy as alternative methods of cure or treatment. However, with time each of these has earned loyalties and acclamation of people. Today, together with Allopathy, demand for pursuing a career in Homeopathy, Ayurveda, Unani, and Yoga-naturopathy have increased manifolds. Due to the initiative of the central and state governments it has become compulsory for hospitals and health centres to employ a reserved medical practitioner. This indeed has increased the interest and opportunity of pursuant to cherish a career in the stream and this would increase in the future as well for sure.

To enlighten where to pursue such a course in India we have come out with the list of the names of some top universities given below. Most of these universities provide the opportunity to pursue the course through the medium of distance education as well.

1. Jadavpur University, Kolkata

Course – Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga-Therapy)

Duration – Two years

Qualification – Graduate

2. Netaji Subhas Open University, Kolkata

Course – Post Graduate Diploma (Sports and Competitive Yoga)

Duration – One year

Qualification – Graduate

However, a Yoga degree could also be earned through the medium of distance education from the comfort zone of home. Given below are the names of such institutes

3. Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana, Bangalore

Course 1 - M. A/M.SC (Yoga Education/Yoga Management/ Yoga Therapy)

Duration – Two years

Qualification – Medico Graduate

Course 2 - M. D (Yoga and Rehabilitation)

Duration – Three years

Qualification – Medico Graduate

Course 3 - M. Phil (Counselling and Yoga Therapy)

Qualification - Post Graduate in Yoga/Psychology

Course 4 - PhD (Yoga)

Duration – Three years

Qualification – Post Graduate, Medico Graduate/Post Graduate

Course 5 - B.A/B.SC (Yoga Science)

Duration – Three years

Qualification – Higher Secondary

4. Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeetha, Tirupati

Course 1 - Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga Science)

Duration – One year

Qualification – Graduate

5. Annamalai University, Tamilnadu

Course 1 – M.A/M.SC (Yoga Science)

Duration – Two years

Qualification – Graduate

Course 2 – Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga Science)

Duration – One year

Qualification – Graduate

6. Alagappun University, Tamilnadu

Course – Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga Science)

Duration – One year

Qualification – Graduate

7. Periyar University, Tamilnadu

Course 1 – M.SC Yoga

Duration – Two years

Qualification – Graduate

Course 2 - Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga)

Duration – One year

Qualification – Graduate

8. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic University, Madhya Pradesh

Course 1 – M.A/M.SC (Yoga Science)

Qualification – Graduate

Course 2 – Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga Science)

Duration – One year

Qualification – Graduate

9. Kurukshetra University, Haryana

Course 1 – M.A/M.SC (Music, Yoga and health)

Duration – Two years

Qualification – Graduate

Course 2 – Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga Science)

Duration – One year

Qualification – Graduate

Names of some of the other popular organizations are as given below:

10. Patanjali University, Haridwar

Course 1- M.A/M.SC (Yoga Science)

Qualification – Graduate

Course 2- Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga Science)

Duration – One year

Qualification – Graduate

Course 3 – B.A/B.SC (Yoga Science)

Duration – Three years

Qualification – Higher Secondary

11. Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar

Course 1 – M.A/M.SC (Applied Yoga and Human Excellence)/Yoga Science and Holistic Health/Yoga Therapy

Duration – Two years

Qualification – Graduate

Course 2 – Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga Science)

Duration – One year

Qualification – Graduate

Course 3 – B.A/B.SC (Yoga Science)

Duration – Three years

Qualification – Higher Secondary

12. Lakshmibai National University of Physical Education, Gwalior

Course 1 – M.A/M.SC (Yoga Science)

Duration – Two years

Qualification – Graduate

Course 2 – Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga and Alternative Therapy)

Duration – One year

Qualification – Graduate

13. Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute, Lonavala, Pune

Course – Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga Science/Yoga Therapy)

Duration – One to two years

Qualification – Graduate

14. Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, Delhi

Course 1 – Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga Science)

Duration – One year

Qualification – Graduate

Course 2 – B.A/B.SC (Yoga Science)

Duration – Three years

Qualification – Higher Secondary

15. Bihar School of Yoga, Munger

Course – Diploma and Post Graduate Diploma (Yoga Science)

Duration –One year

Qualification – Graduate

Some other well-known institutes for the course are Gurukul Kangri University (Haridwar), Barkatullah University (Bhopal, M.P), Pandit Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, etc.

If we go by the latest trend, there is one profession that is looking up, that is nursing. Today, a career in nursing is as popular as any other career. As a result, many are planning to pursue a career in this field of medicine including males. So, General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) Nursing facilitates males and females with the various courses in the field as because there is a great demand for well-trained nurses. Fortunately, in the West Bengal State, there are many government and private institutes that facilitate students to pursue a career in this field.

Let’s check out the various courses in nursing

1. Auxiliary Nursing and Midwifery (ANM): The ANM Course could be done after the completion of 10+2. The course duration is of two years. The course is affiliated with the Indian Nursing Council. The age limit ranges from 17 to 35 years.

2. General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM): The course requires 10+2 pass in any stream with English as a compulsory subject. The course duration is three and a half years or three years and six months precisely. The age limit for the course ranges from 17 to 27 years. It is affiliated with the West Bengal Nursing Council. Besides, the course could be done by the government and private institutes as well. Around seventy candidates get the opportunity to do the course at a time.

Nursing courses and institutes

3. B. SC Nursing: It’s a four-year course for candidates who have passed out 10+2 with English, Physics, Chemistry and Biology along with fifty percent marks in aggregate. Candidates need to go through an admission test conducted by the West Bengal Joint Entrance Board. For admission in government colleges for the course candidates or their guardians need to be a resident of the West Bengal State for ten years. However, candidates from outside the state may take admission in private colleges for the course. The minimum age for the course is seventeen years. The course is affiliated to the West Bengal University and Health Science, West Bengal Nursing Council and Indian Nursing Council.

4. Practical Nursing (Vocational): This course requires (Class X) Madhyamik or equivalent qualification. Interested candidates may take admission in private institutions for the course and their age should be minimum 17 years.

5. Post Basic Diploma in Nursing: Apart from the popularity of the B.SC Nursing and GNM Nursing this course has its own popularity. The course could be done with together with B.SC nursing. The duration of the diploma course is one year and it includes neonatal nursing, nurse practitioner in midwifery, cardiovascular nursing, neo-science in nursing, critical care nursing, psychiatric nursing, D.C.H.N.E.A. All these courses are of one year.

6. M.SC Nursing: This course could be done after the B.SC nursing course from any of the institute affiliated to the Indian Council of the West Bengal University of Health Science. Besides, the course required two years experience as per the INC criteria. Some of the specializations are Medical Surgical Nursing, Child Health Nursing, Maternity Nursing, obstructive Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Mental Health Nursing. For the two years course, one needs to go through admission test. The Joint Entrance Exam is conducted by the University of Health Science.

Now, it’s the time to check out the various institutes conducting the various courses of nursing in the West Bengal State.

1) Anandolok School of Nursing, Siliguri, Darjeeling

2) School of Nursing Asia Heart Foundation, E. M. Bypass, Kolkata

3) Calcutta Medical Research Institute School of nursing, Diamond Harbour Road, Kolkata

4) Calcutta Nursing Training Institute, Shakespeare Sarani, Kolkata

5) Charnock Hospital and Research Centre Pvt. Limited, Rajarhat, Kolkata

6) Desun School of Nursing, Kasba, Kolkata

7) Durgapur School of Nursing, Durgapur

8) Islamia Hospital School of Nursing, Kolkata

9) Mission of Mercy School Nursing, Park Street, Kolkata

10) Ramkrishna Sarda Mission Matri Bhavan,

The Higher Secondary or the 10+2 result came out recently. In spite of the good result, no one is in the mood to relax. Good, because this is signalling a refreshing phase of maturity among the youths of this new generation. A closer look in the academic sector would reveal a wide range of options available after clearing the 10+2 examination successfully. For say, one may choose to go ahead with the regular course of studies or any of the specialised courses for a bright future ahead. Today, we are discussing some of the top courses and career options available after clearing the senior secondary examination.

1. Diploma in Education: Anyone, irrespective of any stream, securing fifty percent marks in 10+2 could do this course. The course duration is of two years. This opens up the opportunity for teaching in primary and private schools.

2. Human Development: Life is like a jigsaw or puzzle and complex situations cannot be averted at all. For a solution, many people depend on psychiatrists and family counsellors. For this, one may pursue the course of Human Development Honours. It includes human development through childhood, psychological testing, and statistics, care and education in infancy and childhood, guide and counselling of children in distress, marriage and family relation, the child with special needs, etc. A 10+2 pass in any stream could pursue the course.

Courses after Higher Secondary

3. Audiology and Speech Therapy: Hearing and speech problems are common among children and the aged. Often these problems lead to other complex problems in the future. For curing these types of problems one may pursue the Audiology and Speech Therapy course. The four years bachelors’ degree of audio and the speech-language course is conducted under the West Bengal Health Science. To pursue the course one needs to clear the Higher Secondary of equivalent examination with physics, chemistry, biology, and English and a fifth subject.

4. Bachelor of Computer Application: This course leads one to the professional arena in no time as because the computer is in use everywhere. So, the course widens up the job opportunities. One may do BCA after passing out Higher Secondary with mathematics or statistics. Besides, completing the graduation with computer application opens up a huge opportunity in the information technology sector.

5. Information Technology: IT or Information Technology comprise of the computer, storage, networking, system, design, recording, etc. For business in IT computer technology and telephone are important. Today, specialisation in information and technology open ups a wide array of opportunities. So after passing out higher secondary with mathematics, physics and chemistry it is important to do a diploma or degree course in information technology. After the completion of the course, one may join any company or firm as a chief information officer, chief technology officer, IT director, system administrator, application manager developer, etc.

6. Software Engineer: Different types of computer based works require a different type of software. Again, the software opens up different kind of job opportunities like administrative works, accountancy works, micro planning works, railway ticket booking, hotel booking, hospital works, etc. The software is made by software engineers. To learn about software works one may do diploma courses from any institute after the secondary or higher secondary examinations. After successful completion of the courses, opportunities are available in various government and private organisations.

7. Hardware and networking: Hardware is the technical or physical parts of a computer. The CPU, monitor, keyboard, mouse, CD-Rom, etc., are the various hardware parts of a computer. And networking is used to connect the computers. LAN or local area network technology is used to connect computers in a small area while WAN or wide area network is used to connect computers in a large area. There is a huge job opportunity centred on hardware and networking. Doing a hardware diploma course after the higher secondary is a worthy decision considering the huge opportunities in the BPO, Cyber Cafe, telecoms industry, banking sector and various other public and private firms.

8. Multimedia: It doesn’t matter whether one has a creative corner or not. What matters is by doing a multimedia course one would move a step further in the career. Work in multimedia deals with information, audio, video, animation, text, graphic, drawing and image. For example, various types of advertisements and cartoon films depend on multimedia. After competing of secondary and higher secondary one may opt for a diploma in the multimedia course.

9. Web designing and e-commerce: An attractive web page is the backbone of Internet surfing because it forces the readers to an extent to visit the page again. Therefore, the various parts or sections of a web page are prepared flawlessly. Sometimes a particular image, data, video or a flow chart draw the attention of visitors successfully. Besides, animation and multimedia are used as well. Most of these works are professionally done by web developers. Moreover, there is some website that deals with buying and selling of stuff and is categorised as e-commerce websites. After higher secondary one may do a certificate or diploma in web designing and e-commerce.

10. E-Filing: Keeping Accountancy in the computer has its own advantages. The accounts data could be stored permanently and with accuracy with the help of respective software applications. Besides, banking or tax accounts are kept in computers as well and termed as e-filing. To be an expert in e-filing one needs to have knowledge in tally, provident fund, professional tax. After higher secondary (in any stream) and with computer basic knowledge one could do the course.

Life Breezy is teaming up once again with new zeal and enthusiasm for a touring flick after several weeks. And as a blog site, it takes a keen interest publishing on travel, weekend trips and picnic spots. For long, it has been waiting for such an opportunity. Today, we are happy to introduce you with the summer weekend destination Netarhat Town located in the Latehar district of Jharkhand.

Attractions

Koyal River (Drawing)

Situated at an altitude of 3760 feet it is also known as the ‘Queen of Chotanagpur.’ Attaining the fame of a popular hill station the region is popular for viewing the early sunrises and the evening sunsets. Far from the touches of any modernity, nature here shelters itself under the shades of casuarinas and pine trees. Besides, the zigzag walkways through the lakes, springs and forests provide one with the most happening experience of being in a place that is unique in all aspects.

The Sunshine Point is located merely one kilometre away from the Netarhat bus stand. It is the best point to visit the sunrise and sunset. The Koyal View Point located two kilometres away introduces the zigzag journey of the Koyal River on the hills. Descending ten kilometres from here would lead you to the Magnolia Point. It holds its significance because it unfolds the remarkable view of the Chotanagpur Plateau to the viewers. Besides, the Upper Ghagri and the Lower Ghagri attracts the visitors as well. With the initiative of the government, a tea state is launched here.

Nearby attractions

Lodh Falls, the highest fall of the Jharkhand State is located sixty kilometres away from here. The view of the fall in the midst of forest is an exciting experience to carry along from here.

To get there

Ranchi is the nearest railway station to Netarhat. Shatabdi Express departs every day (except Sunday) from the Howrah Station at 6:05am and reaches Ranchi at 1:20pm on the same day. Besides, the Howrah-Ranchi Intercity Express departs from the Howrah Station at 2:25pm on Monday, Tuesday, and Sunday and reaches Ranchi at 10:10pm on the same day. A bus journey from Ranchi to Netarhat takes around seven hours. Buses from Ranchi to Netarhat are available at 7am, 8am, 10:30am and 12:30pm.

Lodging

Some of the ideal lodgings at Netarhat are given below:

Hotel Prabhat Vihar of the JTDC is an ideal lodging where the rent for rent for a double bed is RS 600. Some of the other government hotels include Palamau Dak Bangalow, PWD Bungalow, and Netarhat Revenue Bungalow. Besides, Forest Resthouse, Valley View Hotel, Sunrise Hotel, and Lakeview Hotel are available for suitable lodging as well.

Where would your incredible journey take you this time? Not sure? Then get ready to hear because we had a mutual understanding in the past to listen to each other, forever. Imagine yourself in the scenario near a sea beach. And the whole atmosphere around you, casting its magic spell under the moonlight. The low flickering lights of the distant fisher village are appearing like countless small earthen lamps (diyas) lit to welcome the dusk. There is silence all around and the only noises disturbing the peace are the tandem voices of the fishers in their boats at the sea and the waves rushing towards the shores. There is a lighthouse that is standing there from the Raj era and a new beach resort in the middle.

Attractions

Not more than two years ago, due to the initiative of the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department, the Haritha Beach Resort was inaugurated. It takes one night journey in a train from Kolkata to reach the spot. It has developed into a superb weekend destination now. Even though the main road is a bit far from the resort, but everything is available here. Apart from the resort, Baruva has some ancient temples. Among these temples, the Kotilingeshwarswami Temple deserves a special mention because it has one crore Shivalingas. Besides, the Janardanswami Temple and Durga Temple are the other attractions of the place.

Haritha Beach Resort, Baruva

In the eastern coastal region of Baruva, near the Odisha and Andhra Pradesh border, the Mahendratanya River confluences with the Bay of Bengal. The Haritha Beach Resort built by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department is an ideal place to experience the isolated sea in a peaceful atmosphere. To be precise, the Beach Resort is located in the Srikakulam district of the Andhra Pradesh State. Turning over the pages of History reveals it was once a sea port in the Raj era. After independence, in 1948 the sea port was closed and the lighthouse standing until today bears the testimony of this fact.

Some of the significant nearby attractions of Baruva includes Telinilapuram, Mandasa Vasudeva Temple, Srimukhalingam, Arasavalli, Sri Kumanatha Swami Temple, Salihundam, Kalingapatnam, etc.

Telinilapuram: The Telinilapuram Bird Sanctuary is located sixty kilometres away from Baruva. In winter, around November flock of birds migrate here from Siberia. Birds like the flamingo, painted stork, pelican lay their eggs here. On an average from November to March around five thousand birds build their nest. Located beside the sanctuary is an ancient lord Shiva Temple.

Mandasa Vasudeva Temple: Mandasa is located seventeen kilometres away from Baruva. Over here, is situated the ancient Vasudeva Temple. It’s the only temple in India where the five Pandavas of the great epic Mahabharata is worshipped. During the auspicious of Maha Shivratri, a grand fair is organised here every year.

Sri Kumanatha Swami Temple: It is located 117 and 115 kilometres away from Baruva and Srikakulam respectively. Lord Vishnu’s second avatar Kum or kachhap (marble figure) is worshipped here. According to mythology, once Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu Dev visited here as well.

Salihundam: It is located around 105 kilometres away from Baduva near Kalingapatnam at the banks of the Vamsadhara River. It is a Buddhist Maha Vihara.

Kalingapatnam: Located around 110 kilometres away from Baduva it is an ancient port of India. It is over here the Vamsadhara River confluences with the waters of Bay of Bengal. Located beside the sea beach is another landmark resort of the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department.

To get there

There are two ways to reach Baruva from Kolkata by the railways. Trains like the East Coast Express, Falaknuma Express, Howrah-Yeshvantpur Express available from the Howrah Station to Palasa Station in Andhra Pradesh. From here, another 35 kilometres road journey would take one to the spot. Besides, one may board trains like Coromandel Express, Kanyakumari Express or Chennai Mail and get down at Odisha. From here, another 70 kilometres road journey would take one to the spot.

Lodging

Haritha Beach Resort of the Andhra Pradesh Tourism at Baruva is one of the best options for lodging. Rents of AC/Non-AC double bedrooms range between RS 1000 to RS 1500.

The Rath Puja festival brought along with it a whole lot of parcel boxes for the City of Joy. After undoing each of these boxes there came out happiness, excitement and fun-filled hours to paint the city in the magical colors. Notably, the 6th of July was the first day of the Rath Puja and not only city dwellers but also people from various horizons flocked into the region to experience, glimpse and participate in the holy Kolkata Iskon Rath Yatra Ceremony.

Lord Jagannath, Balaram and Shubhadra

People started flocking to the Hungerford Street from the early morning. The event was special because it was the 45th anniversary of the event to be celebrated in Kolkata. The ceremony began with the holy thread (rope) pulling event and in no time people gathered in huge numbers at the City’s Rajpath. Later, in the evening the Rath Yatra journey ended at the TAI Brigade Parade Ground. The deities will be kept here until the Ulta Ratha (return journey) day for the darshan of the viewers.

Lord Jagannath Chariot

It was 4pm in the afternoon and the lanes near the Park Street Metro got crowded with the general people and devotees. Amidst the tight security of the policemen and security persons all were waiting with family and friends to watch the deities Jagannath, Balram and Subhadra pass by. Finally, exactly at quarter past five, the wonderful ceremony began. One after the other, the decorative tableaus, horse chariots, jhakis, and processions started passing by.

Saints and sages

The presence of Iskcon sages and saints were transforming the atmosphere into a holy and a spiritual gathering. They were stopping on their way, addressing the people and encouraging everyone to enchant the holy mantras along with them. Their speech was welcomed warm heartedly and every word they spoke was as precious as gold. Indeed, the enchanting of the mantras along with the holy souls brought a lot of relief on the inner soul.

Lord Krishna with bow and arrow

Each time a procession was passing, the excitement and enthusiasm of the onlookers including women and children were worth watching. Some were waving their arms in the air; some were clapping while some others were enchanting the holy mantra of Hare Rama and Hare Krishna. Some of the other attractions of the ceremony were drawing of live rangolis, lord Krishna sitting on horses back with bow and arrow in a shooting posture. Besides, the live performances of various types of dances and the flag march procession were equally attractive and appealing.

The date and timing of the 45th Kolkata Rath Yatra are 6th to 14th July 2016 from 4pm to 9pm. The venue is TAI Brigade Parade Ground, at the opposite of the Park Street Metro. Besides, celebrating the Iskcon’s 50th anniversary a special program called the Bhagavata Kathamrita based on the theme of ‘Drink the nectar of Krishan Katha …’ would be organized whose details are as given below:

Rangoli Art live drawing

Date: 7th to 13th July 2016.

Time: 11am to 2pm

Venue: Rath Yatra – Cultural Program Pandal,

TAI Brigade Ground,

Opposite Park Street Metro.

The entry is reserved for registered pass holders only. However, for registration one may contact: 9674836232

Here is a small video of the grand ceremony, brought to you by Life Breezy’s YouTube Channel.

The sky getting overcast with thick dark grey clouds, the occasional thundering sounds shaking the land and showers’ ranging from medium to high-frequency wets everything on it. What do these natural phenomena signify? Yes, it signifies the arrival of the Indian monsoon. To be specific these sights are common in almost everywhere in India during this rainy season. However, in the rural areas, some more notable features of the season are experienced by us. For instance, a peacock dancing with its wings widespread forecasts the rain. Again the drizzling sound of the rain and the croaking of the frogs are the extra piece of pudding on the cake for the true nature lovers.

Even though moving out on trips in the season sounds a bit risky affair, but trust us, it involves a certain degree of adventure as well. The only thing we need from our side is a bit of precaution and carefulness. Not to forget moving out on trips in the monsoon itself in an excuse to get drenched and wet on the go along with nature. So, today once again we are introducing another nearby destination the Pathra Village located only a few (11 approx) kilometers away from the Midnapore Town in the West Midnapore.

Attractions

Terracotta Temple at Pathra (drawing)

The spot is neither an internet sensation neither it has ever been destined to be a trendy topic for discussion in any of the social networking sites. However, apart from the history, the very corridor you walk into would make you feel special every moment. The rainy season fills up the river Kangsabati to its brinks and on its bank, the Pathra Village is located. The spot has a wonderful collection of Terracotta temples, some of which dates back to more than a couple of centuries before. The burnt bricks work over the walls of the temples highlights the creativity and excellence of art that flourished in those times.

In order to preserve these priceless structures of the past, the locals have come forward and formed a committee called the Pathra Archaeological Preservation Committee. Pages of history reveal that in 1972, Nawab Alivardi Khan promoted Baidyananda Ghosal as the tax collector of the region. It was he who built this lineage of terracotta temples in the region.

Around five decades ago, Vishnu Lokeshwar Statue was recovered from the waters of one of the ancient long discarded ponds of Pathra. Investigations revealed the statue was built in the ninth century. Besides, the Astadhatu Radha Krishna Statue was recovered as well. Some of the well-known temples of the region are Navratna Temple (45 ft in height), Dharma Temple, Burimar Than Temple, Sitla Temple, Kalachander Dalan Temple, Sarba Mangal Temple, etc. Located beside the Navratna Temple is the Atchala Temple dated back to 1816. Adjacent to it are another three Atchala temples and a Shivalaya. Today, there are around 32 terracotta temples in the region welcoming the visitors to the region. Besides, the artistic works of the Rashmancha and Durga mandap are equally soothing to the eyes.

To get there

Local and express trains are available from the Kolkata City to Midnapore. Rupashi Bangla Express departs at 6:25am from the Santragachi Station and reaches Midnapore at 8:43am. Purulia Express departs from the Howrah Station at 4:50pm and reaches 7:03pm. Aranyak Express departs from the Shalimar Station at 7:45am and reaches 10:12am. Besides, Midnapore local is available as well from the Howrah Station. The distance between Midnapore Station and Pathra is 11 kilometers approx.

Lodging

Pathra doesn’t have any suitable lodging for visitors. In that case, one has to stay at Midnapore. The Rani Shiromani Paryatan Avas of the West Bengal Paryatan Nigam is an ideal space for lodging. The rent for double bedroom ranges from RS 1000 to RS 1200.

A few weeks ago we wrote about Netarhat, the popular town and hill station in the Latehar district of the Jharkhand State. For its beauty and appeal, it is referred as the ‘Queen of the Chotanagpur Plateau’ as well. Today, we are treading a step further and writing about the Betla or the Palamau National Park located 120 kilometres away from the Netarhat town. Notably, it’s another big tourist attraction of the Latehar district.

Attractions

Out of all the popular national parks in the country, the Betla or the Palamau national park of the Chotanagpur Plateau is an outstanding one. Although it is spread around 1026 square kilometres, only 213 square kilometres area is in its core zone and the rest of the areas are the buffer zone. The forest growth mostly comprises of the Mahua and Palash trees. Besides, a wide variety of wildlife species breathes and breeds in the forest area including tiger, elephant, chital, deer, monkeys, wild dogs, wild pigs, wildcats, gaur, sambar, bison, barking deer, monkeys, hyena, squirrel, hornbill, peacock, cuckoo, eagles, etc. It’s one of a kind national park and it is believed that the first time ever tiger counting process began from here.

Elephant and Jeep Safaris are available here for the visitors to explore the forest areas. The timing of the elephant safari is from 7am to 8am every day. However, visitors may explore the forest region by jeep as well. The jeep ride for six people is Rs 600 while an elephant safari for four people is RS 400. The entry fee of the park and the guide charge is Rs 200 each. However, the park remains closed for visitors in the monsoon from 1st of July to 30th of September every year.

To get there

The only bus for Betla departs from Netarhat at 7am in the morning. The distance between the destinations is 120 kilometres. However, visitors coming from Kolkata may board the Howrah-Jabalpur Shaktipunj Express to exit at Daltongunj. It’s a daily express that departs from the Howrah Station at 2:30pm (day) to cover the distance of 574 kilometers to reach Daltongunj at 1:55am (night). Betla located 24 kilometers away from the Daltongunj station. The jeep ride from the station may cost around RS 700 to RS 800. Alternatively, visitors may get down at the Baradi Station as well and cover rest of the distance on a jeep. The jeep fare may cost around Rs 500 to RS 700. However, one of the best options for visitors is to visit Betla and Netarhat on a package tour from Ranchi. Notably, the distance between Ranchi and Betla is 215 kilometers.

Staying

Hotel Van Vihar of the Jharkhand State Tourism Development Nigam is available for comfortable lodging. Rent for the double bed is RS 600 to RS 900. To experience the touch of modernity one may plan to stay on tree houses. The rent ranges from RS 1000 to RS 1200. Besides, lodges of the forest department are also available for comfortable staying. For booking one may contact: DFO Daltonganj (South), Forest Department, Daltonganj-822 101. Some other hotels in the Daltonganj are Hotel Natraj, Hotel Satyam, Hotel Koyel, etc.

Treading from the Esplanade (Dharmatala) region towards the east direction would lead one to the S. N. Banerjee Road. The Kolkata Mounted Police Head Quarters is located on the left side adjacent to the Kolkata Municipal Corporation Building on the main road. The exterior view of the building structure draws the attention of the passers-by. A pinch of greenery flanks the outer space located outside the building structure. The main entrance extends to the broad space inside.

Kolkata Mounted Police
Head Office (main entrance)

Kolkata is one of those cities that traces, treasures and preserves its past for the present and the future generations. Peeping into the history reveals the fact that the formation of the Kolkata Mounted Police for the first time took place in 1840. During those time it was housed near the Kolkata Port. No sooner a vessel arrived at the port the information was carried out to the Harbour Master by any of the officials of the Mounted Police Army. Notably, in those time it was one of the prime jobs of the Mounted Police.

As time rolled on they were engaged in the Maidan region to maintain law and order. During any crisis situation, the mounted officers were available to safeguard and protect. In other words, they looked after the safety of the common people to a greater extent.

Kolkata Mounted Police
Head Office

With time, understandably, the officials increased in numbers and therefore they were entrusted with some more added responsibilities. One such responsibility was related to sports. In those times, the excitement of Kolkatans with sports like football and hockey was much more than what it is today. People used to come out in huge numbers to support their favourite team as because the entire city was gripped by the spirit of sportive events. However, sometimes these excitements took the shape of certain unfortunate or undesirable incidences. To avert those incidences, the mounted police was posted outside the stadiums and they did their job flawlessly.

Even today they carry out and discharge their duty with utmost dedication. They have the responsibility of looking after the five kilometres area including the regions of Outram Ghat, A.J.C Bose Road, Raj Bhavan, Hastings, Eden Gardens, etc. Besides, they keep special surveillance at the political processions and at the festive gatherings on the Red Road.

A horse grazing in the
Maidan Region

As said before, the head office of the Kolkata Mounted Police is now at the Surendra Nath Banerjee Road. It is worthwhile to mention here a word or two about the service horses used in the force.These horses are bought from the Saharanpur. These horses are special because they are superior to ordinary horses in terms of strength, power, prowess, and working capacity. However, these horses have to go through special training before joining the duty. Beginning from the know-how of dispersing mobs to jumping and crossing hurdles all include in the syllabus of their training.

Kolkata’s population has grown by leaps and bounds since the independence and there is no strong reason to suppose that the growth would be under control in times to come. However, as long as the Kolkata Mounted Police is in service we can be rest assured that the law, order, decorum and peace would be maintained forever. Indeed, their service is priceless to us and we owe them a lot. We salute their dedication and service wholeheartedly.

Lord Krishna was born in the Dvapara Yuga, around three thousand years ago, at the prison cell of Kamsa. Amidst tight security mother, Devaki’s eighth son was to take birth. According to a prophecy (akashvani), this son would be the cause of cruel Kamsa’s death. Therefore, Kamsa and his guards are anxiously waiting to kill the eighth or the newborn of mother Devaki.

Kamsa had captured the throne of Mathura cruelly by imprisoning his father, Ugrasena. He knew legally he had no right to inherit the throne as because he was not the legal son of the king. In fact, he was the son of demon Drumil who once disguised as king Ugrasena had physical intimacy with the king’s wife, Pawan Rekha.

Even though a demon’s blood was flowing in the veins of Kamsa he had the divine blessing of lord Shiva to live an immortal life. He knew he could be dominated or killed only by the eight born of his sister, Devaki. So, after the marriage of his sister he kept both the sister and her husband, Vasudeva in a prison cell. Vasudeva handed over to Kamsa all the six newborns, one after the other, and he didn’t hesitate even once to kill them all. During the seventh born of Devaki Kamsa was informed that she had a miscarriage. He was in confusion if that was the seventh or eighth born of Devaki. So, he tightened the security of the prison even more than before.

Now, it’s the appropriate time for the readers to learn more about Vasudeva and Devaki … Do you know who Vasudeva and Devaki were? According to the legends, once sage Kashyap along with his two wives, Aditi and Surabhi, stole the cow of Varuna. Out of sheer rage or anger, Varuna cursed them to born as humans on the earth to repent. So sage Kashyap was born as Vasudeva, Aditi as Devaki and Surabhi as Rohini. Later, Devaki gave birth to Sri Krishna and Rohini gave birth to Sri Balarama.

Little Krishna with Mother Yashoda

Returning back to the main course of the story … At midnight, in the asthami tithi, the weather so menaced that it seemed that the monsoon shower would wipe away everything with it. What did the natural phenomena signify? Does it mean the birth of a super human on the lap of mother earth? That night a sparkling light flashed and a baby was born in Devaki’s prison. Vasudeva was brainstorming as how to safeguard and protect the godly child who appeared to be an avatar of Lord Vishnu from the evil hands of Kamsa. An announcement (akashvani) took place from the bright sparkling light – “I’ve come, I’m the one who you’re waiting for so long. You’ll are holy souls, therefore, I’m born in your prison-house. Now, take me to Gould where mother Yashoda has given birth to a girl child. Keep me there and bring back the new born girl child here. This will not lead to you any sin because you’re doing this on my instruction.”

With the soft touch of the newborn Vasudeva’s heart was filled with new hope and strength. He moved ahead with the baby Krishna on his lap. The door of the prison opened as all the guards were dozing in deep slumber. To protect Vasudeva and baby Krishna from the turbulent stormy night Nag raj Sheshnaag spread its heads like a huge umbrella under the sky. Soon Vasudeva reached the banks of River Yamuna. However, the waters of the river were so turbulent that it seemed to engulf the entire earth inside it. No sooner Vasudeva stepped into the river water it subsided and made way for him to go ahead. After crossing the river Vasudeva reached the home of Gokulraj Nanda. Nanda was waiting for their arrival along with the purohit brahmin, Gargacharya who named the little baby as Krishna.

Vasudeva left Krishna alongside sleeping mother Yashoda and returned to the prison with the girl child of mother Yashoda. Next day, as Kamsa planned to kill the girl child she disappeared from his hands. Suddenly a heavenly light flashed and prophesized (akashvani) that whosoever will kill Kamsa is growing safely in Gokul. The entire episode surrounding Sri Krishna’s birth became a golden event in Indian History as Janmashtami. Since Mathura is the birth place of Lord Krishna it is a popular pilgrim spot in India.

What happens when we put together the words discotheque (dance hall), club and disco together? Yes, you guessed it right we are talking about Nightclubs. But then what is a night club in a layman term? Well, in a simple term it’s an entertainment place which is also popular as a discotheque, club or disco in Kolkata. This special kind of club remains open until midnight in the city. It has a special dedicated spot for dancing or the dance floor which is not found in a pub or a bar. Here, DJ or the Disc Jockey plays disco, hip-hop, rock, pop, etc., according to the theme or the mood of the club environment. Besides, some night clubs have the arrangement for live music as well. Together with these, there are suitable arrangements for a snack along with various types of soft and hard drinks as well.

Basically, there’re certain things to keep in mind before you check out in a night club in the city. For instance, females should avoid dresses like saris and churidars as because these may obstruct the free movement on the dance floor. Males may wear smart casual dresses but dresses like shorts, tracksuits, etc., should be avoided at any cost. Besides, if you are attending any special theme party of the city night club make sure to dress up according to it to match up. Moreover, you need to pay special attention to make-up as well. Finally, care should be taken on the dance floor as well. If you enjoy dancing then join the group or else simply avoid it. This is so because dancing for a long time may not be good for health if you’re not habituated or comfortable with it. And for your own safety, don’t get too close to unknown people on the floor.

So, after having some of the handful information about the Kolkata Night Clubs, let us find out some more details of the best ones that exist within the city.

Tanta

The Park, Kolkata

You will find the club at the Park Hotel as you enter the long road in the Park Street. It’s open from 7 pm until midnight. However, on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays it’s open until 2 am. The cover fee for a couple is RS 500 to RS 700. Even though it’s open for couples groups are allowed on special permissions. On some Wednesdays, ‘Girls Night Out’ party option is available for the females. Moreover, information about any other party is available from the night club as well. It remains closed on Tuesday.

Someplace Else

For testing out the variety of band music Someplace of The Park Hotel is the ultimate destination for everyone. Although its timing is from 7 pm to 12 midnight but on Fridays and Saturdays it’s open until 2 am. Even though there is no entry fee but you need to pay for food and drinks for sure. It’s popular for its regular live band music shows.

Roxy

This one too is located inside The Park Hotel. It’s open from 8 pm to 12 am but on Fridays and Saturdays, it’s open until 2 am. Entry to the club is restricted on invitation only through any of the programs/events taking place there. Thursday is special here because on this particular day of the week ‘Ladies Theme Party’ and other theme parties are arranged. However, as said before, entry is allowed only to the invitees.

Sisha

To be precise, it’s located at the Camac Street, 22 Block D on the sixth floor. Although open from 6 pm to midnight but on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays it’s open from 6 pm to 2 am. Here, the entry fee for a couple is RS 2000. Even though couples and single females are allowed but single male or a group is not allowed.

Ninth Floor

This club is situated at Elgin Road and it has a restaurant as well. Even though the restaurant is open every day but the club is only open on Fridays and Saturdays. The option of unlimited drinks is available on Fridays for RS 950 and on Saturdays for RS 1250. The other rules of the club are similar to those of the other night clubs in the city.

Soho

The club is located on the ground floor of Ideal Plaza on Sarat Bose Road near Minto Park. It is open from 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm on all the days of the week except Saturday. On Saturdays, it’s open until 12:30 am. It’s popular for arranging Ladies Night Special parties on Saturdays. Although there is no entry fee but the minimum expenses for a couple is around RS 100.

Nocturne

It’s located at Jasmine Tower in Shakespeare Sarani. On Fridays and Saturdays, its timing is from 6 pm to 2 am and on other days of the week, it’s open until 11:30 pm. The entry fee for a couple is around RS 2000 along with drinks. Special parties are arranged on Wednesdays.

Plush

The lounge is located at The Aster Hotel in Shakespeare Sarani. It’s a nightclub, lounge, and a restaurant. It’s open 5 pm to 12 am from Tuesday to Sunday but during special parties, it’s open until 2 am. It remains closed on Monday. From 5 pm to 8 pm, an extra drink is free for a paid drink. On Wednesdays and Fridays, there is unlimited drink facility for a single person on payment of RS 1000 and RS 1600 respectively.

Underground

The club is located at Hotel Hindusthan International in A.J.C Bose Road. The timing is from 7 pm to 12 am but on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays the timing is until 2 am. Here, the entry fee for a couple is around RS 1200. Like other clubs, it holds special parties for females on Wednesdays.

Klink

It’s located at the Park Plaza Building in Gariahat. Its timing is from 4 pm to 11:45 pm. The entry fee for a couple is around RS 2000 but on special occasions like the New Year, the entry fee soars up to even RS 4000. It has suitable arrangements like Disc Jockeys, food, and drinks, etc.

Maya & Splash

Both are inside Swissotel at Rajarhat and open from 6 pm to 11:59 pm. Entry fee for a couple is around RS 3000 and 4000 respectively. Here, special party props are provided like a mask, wristband, etc.

Shimmers

It is located at Sector V, Salt Lake. It’s open from 1 pm until midnight with regular DJ performance. There is no entry fee but during special parties, the entry fee is RS 500.

XoXo

The club is located at Sector V, Salt Lake. The timing is from 2 pm to 11:30 pm but on Fridays and Saturdays the party rolls on until 2 am. The entry fee ranges from RS 600 to RS 1000 for a couple. Regular DJ arrangement is available and music on request is played here as well.

Afra

The nightclub, lounge, restaurant with suitable DJ arrangement is located at the City Centre Mall, Salt Lake. The timing is from afternoon 12:30 pm to 11:30 pm. During weekends on Fridays, and Saturdays, it is open until 1 am. Although there is no entry fee but for food and drinks, the expenses per person is RS 1000. There is also the arrangement for regular DJ nights.

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