WELCOME TO THE CITY OF LAKES

WELCOME TO THE CITY OF LAKES

"FOR ALL THOSE WHO ARE LOST,THERE WILL BE ALWAYS CITIES THAT FEELS LIKE HOME" - SIMON VAN BOOY

AND THIS CITY HAS THE POTENCY TO MAKE ANYONE FEEL LIKE SO.

The capital of Madhya Pradesh and home of about 1.8m people. Habituated by Parmar king Bhoj who founded the city in 11^th century and named it Bhojpal. Princely rule was established by Sardar dost mohammmad khan who became the first nawab of Bhopal.

This city is enriched with serene lakes, hillocks, parks, vendancy, wildlife, art and culture. It has a distinct history replete with the stories of prince and princess. Remains of stone and copper ages in and around Bhopal are evident that there was a lovable work place for rules of Maurya, Shunga, Kushana and Gupta periods.

The placid lakes: upper and lower lakes of Bhopal have enhanced its splendor and magnificence giving it an individual identity. The anecdote of its beauty can be found in many poets' poems like Allama Iqbal. Even the ruthless change of times was unable to put a stain on the physical beauty of Bhopal lakes.

The upper lake was constructed in 1011 AD by king Bhoj. It is 31.5 km long and 5km wide. The sunrise and sunset from the boat view is like a visual treat for eyes

The lower lake in the south east of the upper lake constructed by Nawab Hayat Muhammad khan's diwan Chhote Khan. These lakes are indeed the nucleus of city which is bordered along their shores stand silent custodian that testifies to the growth of the city.

Bhopal can boast of great historical happenings which have definitely left its mark on the art and culture. It speaks of a rich heritage and part of the region.

The city is also the hub of some unique museums

BHARAT BHAWAN: Described as the 'house of arts' by the then prime minister Smt. Indira Gandhi, it came into being on February 13, 1982. It is a unique centre of multi arts and was constructed under the guidance of the world renowned architect Charles Correa .It is divided into four sections

• Vagarth- it has a rich library of Indian language poetry and anthologies of world's famous poets.

• Rupankar - the museum of tribal folk artist with a record room having rare books on tribal art.

• Anhad-it displays the rich heritage of Indian classical, tribal and folk music.

• Rangmandal- a full time repertory dedicated to the task of enlightening the young artist about technical aspects of theatre and drama.

INDIRA GANDHI NATIONAL MUSEUM- The national museum of man provides a mirror of the culture of various tribes of India. Models of their huts, gods, goddesses, shrines have been displayed here.

An insight of TRIBAL MUSEUM situated at a few distance from Indira Gandhi manav sangrahalaya.

STATE ARCHAELOGICAL MUSEUM- This museum has galleries which preserves documents of nawabi period; photos ,bronze made idols of gods. The art gallery displays art pieces pots and images.

One of the most prominent features of Bhopal art and culture are its chowks lined with old mosques and havelis. The art of zari work is predominant here for more than 300 years. This industry has also seen the royal elite days of the great emperors.

Apart from all these, what makes Bhopal more special? What makes its culture and art so rich and distinguished from others
? It is the remarkable equilibrium it maintains between hindu and muslim cultures.

The temples and mosques of Bhopal are famous for their architecture and natural sites.

• BIRLA MANDIR- Constructed in 1964 by Ganga Prasad Birla, it is one of the most famous temple here. Huge images of lord Vishnu and goddess laxmi are enshrined in sanctum of temple.

• GUFA MANDIR- It is situated near lalghati on a hill. Late Baba Narayandas discovered it in 1949.

• The GURUDWARA along hamidia road is also very famous. It was constructed in 1983.

The mosques built up during princely rule have historic and archaeological importance.

• The 'Crown of mosques' or popularly known as TAJ-UL-MASJID is the largest mosque in the country and it also happens to be second largest in Asia.

The foundation stone was laid by the princess Shahjehan begum in 1871 AD.

• Out to one's surprise, this fascinating city is also home to the Asia's smallest mosque -DHAI SEEDHI KI MASJID. Initially built as a make shaft mosque during the construction of the Fatehgarh fort started by dost Mohammad khan.

"FOOD IS THE SIMPLEST WAY FOR ME TO LEARN ABOUT ANOTHER CULTURE"- ANDREW ZIMMERE

INDEED!!!. The cultural fusion of city is reflected in its cuisine too. With some of the best vegetarian dishes, it is also a pivot of mouthwatering biryani, seekh kabab, nalli nahari ,machhi fry etc.

The Bhopali paan is an integral part too as it reflects the relaxed and regal temperament of the local people.

The fascinating amalgam of scenic beauty, old historic stuffs and modern planning is what defines Bhopal. Modern Bhopal has embraced new ways of living life but has not neglected the old.