Itinerary - May 1 - May 10
May 1 | May 2 | May 3 | May 4 | May 5 | May 6 | May 7 | May 8 | May 9 | May 10
All meals in the land program will feature a full selection of both Indian and Continental dishes.
May 1, 2013 - Mumbai |
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After disembarking the Azamara Journey, we will proceed to a tour of Dharavi, also known as the Slum Dog Millionaire Tour. The tour of Dharavi consists of the commercial and residential areas. In the residential areas the sense of community and good nature of people will be apparent. While going through the residential area, you will get a sense of the conditions and problems that the residents face. In the commercial area you will see the recycling, food making, temple, sewing, bakery, soap factory and pappad making areas. They all take place in small rooms, which you will see as we pass through the maze of small gullies. The tour guide will give information about Dharavi and its history, talk about issues such as sanitation, education, and the role of government. After the tour, Lunch will be served at the Taj Mahal Hotel followed by check-in. Light, camera, action! No, it’s not Hollywood, it’s Bollywood, home of Hindi cinema! India remains the largest film producer of the world, producing an average of 1000 films a year. Since 1931, when the talkies were introduced, India has produced more than 67,000 films in 30 languages. Today Bollywood is no longer the curry kitsch of the past; it has gathered a large worldwide audience. Through its international quality and blend of East with West, Bollywood has come a long way since 1896 when soundless movies made its advent into India with the Lumiere Brothers. We invite you to enter the world of Bollywood in Hindi filmy ishtyle! Tonight you will be in a Bollywood movie – CMEatSEA Style followed by dinner. |
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May 2, 2013 - Mumbai |
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After breakfast this morning, we will go to the boat jetty at the Gateway of India for a one hour boat ride to the famed Elephanta Island. Elephanta Island is the site of the magnificent Elephanta caves, containing beautiful carvings, sculptures, and a temple to the Hindu God, Lord Shiva. The island, being a commercial, military and religions centre for centuries also has traces of early Buddhist culture. The Elephanta caves are thought to date back to the Silhara kings belonging to the period between 9th - 12th centuries. With the Brahminical resurgence during the reign of Gupta dynasty in 3rd century AD, these great caves exploded into existence at Elephanta. Legends and history suggest that the great warrior prince of Chalukya dynasty Pulkesin ll raised the shrine to celebrate his victory. Some historians also suggest that the Kalchuri King Krishnaraja built these caves in 6th century AD. The island was the capital of the powerful coastal kingdom but later the Portuguese took possession of the island and as they first found a monolith elephant the island was named Elephanta. As the worship of the figure of the Buddha began to be encouraged with rise of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism, a shrine was introduced to house Buddha's image, replacing the cells at the centre of the back wall. The Monasteries of Ajanta lead us directly to Elephanta. It appears that the same families of craftsmen and sculptors who were working on the Kailasa temple of Ellora and adjoining Buddhist caves at Ellora were employed at Elephanta. No doubt the cave was the creation of an unknown genius, a master architect, who having thoroughly absorbed and assimilated the magnificent contribution of his predecessors in the dual traditions of the independent free standing sculpture and rock-cut architecture, produced a monument introducing a whole new world of form quite distinct from any previous achievement. At the entrance to the caves is the famous Trimurti, the celebrated trinity of Elephanta: Lord Brahma the Creator, Lord Vishnu, the preserver and Lord Shiva the Destroyer. Following the Elephanta caves, we will visit Six Sigma - Mumbai Dabbawala's. The Mumbai tiffinwallas are international figures now thanks to Forbes Global. The Forbes story details the efficiency which with they deliver the tiffins of their customers. Around 5000 tiffinwallas deliver 175,000 lunches everyday and take the empty tiffin back. They make one mistake in 2 months. This means there is one error on every 16 million transactions. This is thus a six sigma performance (a term used in quality assurance if the percentage of correctness is 99.999999) - the performance which has made companies like Motorola and GE world famous for their quality. How do they do it? The meals are picked up from commuters' homes in suburbs around central Mumbai long after the commuters have left for work, delivered to them on time, then picked up and delivered home before the commuters return. Each tiffin carrier has, painted on its top, a number of symbols which identify where the carrier was picked up, the originating and destination stations and the address to which it is to be delivered. After the tiffin carriers are picked up, they are taken to the nearest railway station, where they are sorted according to the destination station. Between 10:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. they are loaded in crates onto the baggage cars of trains. At the destination station they are unloaded by other tiffinwallas and re-sorted, this time according to street address and floor. The 100-kilogram crates of carriers, carried on tiffinwallahs' heads, handwagons and cycles are delivered at 12:30 p.m., picked up at 1:30 p.m., and returned where they came from. The charge for this extraordinary service is just 150 rupees ($3.33) per month, enough for the tiffinwallahs, who are mostly self-employed, to make a good living. After paying Rs. 60 per crate and Rs.120 per man per month to the Western Railway for transport, the average tiffinwallas clears about Rs.3,250. Of that sum, Rs. 10 goes to the Tiffinmen's Association. After minimal expenses, the rest of the Rs. 50,000 a month that the Association collects go to a charitable trust that feeds the poor. Superb service and charity too. Can anyone ask for more? What is wonderful about this system is that it extends the design and uses the tiffinwallas, the end user and their cognitive and memory structure as well. Since one tiffinwalla is not going to pick more than 10-20 tiffins, he can easily sort recognize at the originating station and deliver it to the owner. Also within a building, the tiffinwala knows which floor to deliver. Within a floor an owner can recognize his tiffin amongst others. These tiffin’s carry only: a symbol (not name) of the originating station; a symbol for the destination station; and a symbol for the building where the addressee is. And what is more amazing is that this is run by people, most of whom are illiterate. Later proceed for a City Tour of Mumbai. This includes a visit to the
Dhobi Ghat, Gateway of India and Mani Bhawan (Gandhi Memorial).
Drive past the Victoria Terminus, Mumbai University, Marine Drive and
Chowpatty Beach. Next is a visit to Dhobi Ghat. A unique feature of Mumbai, the dhobi is a traditional laundryman, who will collect your dirty linen, wash it, and return it neatly pressed to your doorstep - all for a pittance. The "laundries" are called "ghats": row upon row of concrete wash pens, each fitted with its own flogging stone. The clothes are soaked in sudsy water, thrashed on the flogging stones, then tossed into huge vats of boiling starch and hung out to dry. Next they are ironed and piled into neat bundles. The most famous of these Dhobi Ghats is at Saat Rasta near Mahalaxmi Station where almost two hundred dhobis and their families work together in what has always been a hereditary occupation. Enjoy Lunch at Veda Restaurant, Rohit Bal's Restaurant in Mumbai. The decor evokes Indian palaces and has similarly decadent European influences. There are richly coloured walls with massive red glass chandeliers, gold filigree on the ceilings and large Venetian mirrors on every wall. The food, like the decor, is mostly Indian with Western influences. Veda serves food with all the subtleties of its ingredients and flavors to transform it from being just ‘Indian Food’ to Fine Indian Cuisine. What makes Veda spectacular is the menu has something for everyone, promising to wow with its lip-smacking food, served amidst lavish interiors. The cuisine is a contemporary interpretation of classic Indian cooking. After lunch, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the hotel. Everyone will have an opportunity this afternoon to participate in an optional session on Astrology. The foundation of Hindu astrology is the notion of bandhu of the Vedas (scriptures), which is the connection between the microcosm and the macrocosm. Practice relies primarily on the sidereal zodiac, which is different from the tropical zodiac used in Western (Hellenistic) astrology in that an ayanamsa adjustment is made for the gradual precession of the vernal equinox. Hindu astrology includes several nuanced sub-systems of interpretation and prediction with elements not found in Hellenistic astrology, such as its system of lunar mansions. Astrology forms an integral part of Indian life and it retains a position among sciences in modern India. Dinner at the Hotel. |
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May 3, 2013 - Mumbai - Udaipur |
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This morning we will depart the hotel for our Charter Flight from Mumbai to Udaipur. Upon arrival in Udaipur begin your sightseeing with a visit to the City
Palace. The huge City Palace, towering over the Lake Pichola is the
largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Though it is a conglomeration
of buildings built by successive rulers, it manages to retain a
surprising uniformity of design and affords fine views of the lake
and the city from upper terraces. The main part of the palace is now preserved as a museum displaying a large and diverse array of artifacts. As we go down the steps from the entrance is the armoury museum exhibiting a huge collection of protective gears and various kinds of weapons including the lethal two-pronged sword. The City Palace museum is then entered through the Ganesh Deori. This leads to the Rajya Angan or the royal courtyard. This is the spot where Maharana Udai Singh is said to have met the sage who advised him to found a city here. The rooms of the palace are superbly decorated with mirror tiles and paintings. Manak Mahal or the Ruby Palace has a lovely collection of glass and mirror work while Krishna Vilas displays a rich collection of miniature paintings. Moti Mahal (the pearl palace) has beautiful mirror work and the Chini Mahal has ornamental tiles all over. The Surya Chopar (the sun square) depicts a huge ornamental sun symbolising the sun dynasty to which the Maharajas and their ancestors belonged. The Bari Mahal is a central garden giving a view of the city. Some more beautiful paintings can be seen in the Zenana Mahal (the ladies chamber). Then, there is the Lakshmi Chowk which is a beautiful white pavilion. Lunch at Fateh Prakash Palace. After lunch we will go to the Hotel Taj Lake Palace to check in and the afternoon is at leisure. This evening, we will embark on an evening boat ride on Lake Pichola before our Gala Dinner at the Jagmandir Island Palace. Jagmandir Island is situated in the midst of Lake Pichola. Built by Maharana Karan Singhji in the early 1600s but takes its name from Maharana Jagat Singh (1628-52) who made a number of additions to it. It was in this pleasure Palace where, Prince Khurram, who later on became the Emperor Shahjahan of Mughal dynasty, took refugee in 1623. It is claimed that he derived his inspiration to build Taj Mahal from this island. The whole island has an encompassing view of the City Palace, Lake Palace, the Lake and the Aravali ranges of hills. The sight as one nears the island is stunning, as it is beautifully illuminated and looks like a floating jewel. Once inside, the place transports you to another era, recapturing the essence of royal leisure palaces. |
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May 4, 2013 - Udaipur |
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After breakfast, proceed for a city tour of Udaipur. Visit Jagdish Temple, located in the City Palace complex. Built in 1651, this temple is made in the Indo-Aryan style of architecture. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Laxmi Narayan), the preserver of the Universe. It is celebrated for being the largest temple in the city of Udaipur. This three-storied temple is a wonder of architecture that comprises beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, painted walls and lush halls. In those times, 1.5 million rupees were spent to raise this structure. The spire of the main temple is around 79 feet high that undoubtedly dominates the skyline of Udaipur. This shikhar (spire) is festooned with sculptures of dancers, elephants, horsemen and musicians making it truly a sight to behold. When you approach the temple, you are welcomed by two huge stone elephants at the entrance. The main shrine houses the striking four-armed image of Lord Vishnu. This idol is carved out of a single piece of black stone. A single glimpse of the idol takes the person to the celestial world to find everything calm and serene. The main shrine of Lord Jagdish/ Vishnu is centrally located encircled by four smaller shrines. These shrines are dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Sun God, Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva respectively. The splendid architecture of the temple boasts of a pyramidal spire, mandap (prayer hall) and a porch. The first and the second storey of the temple possess 50 pillars each. The intricate carvings on the pillars need an enduring sight to praise the noteworthy beauty of this temple. This temple was built keeping in the mind the Hindu architectural science of 'Vastushstra'. Every year, people from far and near come to visit this holy place of worship. The serenity as well as the architectural magnificence of the temple cannot be bounded in words, so one must visit this temple to get the blessings of Lord Jagdish.. Next, visit Saheliyon Ki Bari, one of the most beautiful gardens and a major tourist destination in Udaipur. The garden is famous for its lush green lawns, marble art and fountains. The English translation of Saheliyon Ki Bari means "Garden of Maids". This renowned garden is located on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake, presenting a green retreat in the dry lands of Rajasthan. Garden of maids was built in the 18th century by Maharana Sangram Singh for the royal ladies. As per the legends, the garden was designed by the king himself and he presented this garden to his queen. Actually, the Queen was accompanied by 48 maids in her marriage. To offer all of them pleasurable moments away from the political intrigues of the court, this garden was made. This patterned garden used to be the popular relaxing spot of the royal ladies. The queen with her maids and female companions used to come here for a stroll and spend their time in leisure. The superb architecture of the garden provides a breath-taking view to any observer. The garden is embellished with numerous fountains in its four water pools, chiseled kiosks and marble elephants. It is also celebrated for its lotus pool and bird-fountains. The lush green lawns, flowerbeds, and marble pavilions further enhance the romantic ambience of this magnificent garden. Lunch will be at The Leela Palace. After lunch we will return to the hotel and the afternoon is free to enjoy the spa and pool facilities. This evening, there will be a Carnival Dinner at Lake Palace with a Rajasthani cultural performance. |
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May 5, 2013 - Udaipur - Jaipur |
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This morning we will transfer to the airport for our Charter Flight from Udaipur to Jaipur. Upon arrival in Jaipur, we will go on an orientation tour of Jaipur. Jaipur was once the capital of Rajasthan province and was known as “The Abode of Rajahs." Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is the capital of the colourful state of Rajasthan. It has the distinction of being a well planned and laid out city. As you drive through the old part of town, you will witness a life most unlike others. Witness how the city blooms during the day in a kaleidoscope of colour and sound. Jaipur is 260 km from Delhi and 240 km from Agra. It a bustling capital city and a business centre with all the trapping of modern metropolis but yet flavoured strongly with an age-old charm that never fails to surprise a traveller. The old Jaipur painted in Pink can grip any visitor with admiration. The stunning backdrop of ancient forts Nahargarh, Amer, Jaigarh and Moti Dungri are dramatic testimonials of the bygone era and a reminder of their lingering romance. After the city tour, we will go to the Taj Ram Bagh Palace Hotel where you will enjoy a Maharaja welcome. Decorated elephants and horses welcome you, while traditionally attired ladies offer fresh flower garlands, followed by Aarti and Tika. Lunch will be served at the hotel and the afternoon is at leisure. This afternoon, we will have an optional cooking lesson: Participate in preparing a signature Indian meal at Taj Rambagh Palace by their renowned chef. Indian cuisine consists of myriad regional cuisines which date back thousands of years. Indian dishes are characterized by the extensive use of Indian spices, herbs, vegetables, and fruits. Vegetarianism is an important part of Indian society and is reflected in the cuisine. Indian food varies from region to region, reflecting the demographics of the ethnically-diverse subcontinent. Tonight we will have a Grand Dinner at the Private Palace of Maharaja: Enjoy live instrumental music and traditional Rajasthani dances during dinner at the royal pavilion which overlooks the sprawling Jai Niwas Garden and offers a panoramic view of the old city of Jaipur. |
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May 6, 2013 - Jaipur |
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This morning, we will start our day by touring the Amber Fort. Amber Fort is a marvellous example of Rajput architecture with its terraces and ramparts reflected in the Maota Lake below. Ride an elephant to go up the fort like a maharaja. The interior of the fort has various royal halls decorated with intricate ivory, mirror and glass work complemented by exquisite wall paintings. As you move between the rooms of this magnificent structure, feel the history and visualise the pomp and grandeur of a kingdom never conquered. Next visit Jal Mahal Palace. Jal Mahal literally meaning Palace in the Midst of Water is located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake in the Jaipur city. The palace and the lake around it were renovated and enlarged in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Amber. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. The afternoon will be at leisure. This evening we will all enjoy one of the ultimate royal experiences. In the land of Maharajas & Princes, Palaces & Forts, the game of Elephant Polo was one of the ultimate royal experiences. Players are greeted at the Palace's sprawling lawns by a Royal Military Brass Band. Jaipur is the only place in the world where one can witness this exclusive yet gentle sport being played throughout the year. Watching it is a unique and unforgettable experience. The colossal size of the elephant, its playful antics, graceful gait and the wisdom of its eyes have always, moved guests. Dinner will follow the game of Elephant Polo. |
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May 7, 2013 - Jaipur - Agra |
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This morning we will drive from Jaipur to Agra with a stop at Fatehpur Sikri. The drive is fascinating and offers views of the incredible countryside. Fatehpur Sikri was the imperial city of the Mughal dynasty between 1571 and 1584. Fatehpur Sikri was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar. The architectural grandeur of this deserted city cannot be described in words and one can only experience the aura of its magnificent edifices by seeing them. Today, as one enters Sikri from the Agra Gate, one of the nine gateways on the way to the palace complex, Diwani- Aam, or the hall of public audience appears first. It is a huge rectangular walled-in courtyard where petitions were heard, proclamations made, ambassadors received and entertainment programmes held. Ponder the mysterious desertion of this capital city that was dramatically abandoned a few years after it was built. It was a veritable fairy tale city and its 'ruins' are still in a pristine condition. It is not hard to imagine what the court life must have been like in the days of its grandeur. Arrive in Agra and check in at hotel Oberoi Amar Villas. At the time of the Mughals, in the 16th & 17th centuries, Agra was the capital of the grand Mughal Empire. During this period the city became a leading centre of art, science, commerce and culture. Akbar the Great made Agra great. The city's origins are dim but Akbar's grandfather Babur is credited with Agra's founding. The short golden age of Agra came to an end with the seventeenth century reign of Shah Jehan, mastermind of the unforgettable Taj Mahal. Lunch at will be at the Hotel Oberoi Amar Villas. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the pool and spa facilities at the hotel. Optional afternoon excursion: Visit to Agra Fort. In the afternoon drive to Agra Fort where you are taken through This evening, we will have a special Dinner at Taj Khema. Taj Khema is charming experience where you can bask in the magnificence of the Taj Mahal. Located at a distance of approximately 300 meters from the monument, Taj Khema is a lush green mound which offers an un-interrupted view of the Taj. Legend has it that the mud which was dug up to build the Taj Mahal was collected at a little distance and with time it formed into the hillock mound that is now called Taj Khema. It serves as the most scenic vantage point to marvel the beauty of the Taj Mahal. Being located in a protected zone, the area is virtually pollution free. |
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May 8, 2013 - Agra - Varanasi |
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This morning we will take a rickshaw ride from the parking area to the Taj Mahal Gate for our early morning visit to the Taj Mahal - the magnificent monument to love built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631, and is believed to have taken 18 years to complete, with over 20,000 craftsmen working around the clock. The design and construction is said to be that of the legendary architect, Ustad Ahamad Lahori. Legend has it that once construction was completed, Shah Jehan had Lahori's hands cut off, and blinded, so he would never be able to duplicate the structure. What makes the Taj Mahal unique is its perfect proportions, distinct femininity, medium of construction and ornamentation. Its marble exterior reflects rose and golden tints at sunrise and sunset, while it is dazzling white during the day. It is impossible to visualize the Taj Mahal in any surrounding others than its paradoxical garden. Paradise, in Islam, is visualized as a lush garden where running streams flow. When the Moghuls brought this concept to India they elevated it to the heights of incomparable history. Return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport for our Charter flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival in Varanasi, we will and check into the Nadesar Palace hotel. Varanasi or Kashi, the most sacred and revered of all the Hindu pilgrimage sites is situated on the banks of The River Ganges. Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously living cities in the world. It is said a dip in the holy Ganges redeems a person of all his mortal sins. Lunch will be served at the hotel and the afternoon will be at leisure. In the late afternoon we will leave for our excursion to Sarnath with Buddhist Monks. Sarnath is the hallowed spot where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon after attaining Enlightenment, revealing his doctrine of the Eight Fold Path and enshrining the principles of his teachings into laws. The ruined Dharmrajika stupa and the great Dhamekh stupa mark the spot where the Buddha set in motion the Wheel of Law. Explorations during the recent Japanese-funded UNESCO project have yielded in the words of Dr. R.C. Agrawal, superintending Archaeologist "the biggest Buddhist settlement in all of Central India". The remains point to monasteries of enormous proportion. Earlier eight structures had been identified. Now 14 more monasteries and 23 stupas have been found. In the evening witness Arti (Prayer ceremony) on the Ghats of River Ganges with a Hindu priest. The Aarti ceremony takes place each evening on the Ghats of Varanasi and is a process of worship of Goddess Ganges with various musical instruments and relaxing chants. This is truly a magical moment. Dinner will be served at the hotel followed by an Indian Classical Dance Performance |
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May 9, 2013 - Varanasi - Delhi |
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In the early morning depart the hotel to experience a sunrise while sailing on the River Ganges. There is no Indian attraction like Varanasi. There are no architectural splendours, no exquisitely carved palaces or impregnable forts, and yet the city has an inherent charm. Situated on the west bank of the Ganges, it extends back from the riverbank ghats to a winding maze of picturesque alleys overlooking tall houses alongside, dotted with temple It is a fascinating area to walk around. Varanasi today, is also a centre of education, art and craft. Return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast proceed on a Temple Tour of Varanasi. Drive by the Benaras Hindu University with a visit to the Bharat Mata (Mother India) Temple. Visit some of the holy temples of the city which encapsulate the ambience and the spirit of the city. Highlights include the Durga Temple, better known as the 'monkey temple' on account of the large number of monkeys residing there and the Temple of Vishwanath (or Visheshwar, Lord of the Universe). Lunch will be served at the hotel prior to our departure to the Airport for the Charter flight to Delhi Upon arrival in Delhi, we will transfer to the hotel and the afternoon will be at leisure. This evening, we will have the Exclusive Dinner at the Lions of Punjab. The Sikh community of Punjab the “Singhs” are also known as the lions because of their bravery and their perseverance. One of the founders of Sikhism, Maharaja Ranjit Singh was known as the “Lion of Punjab”. This evening brings you face-to-face with one of India’s most lively and vibrant states with a little piece of the “Villages of Punjab”. Based on the state of Punjab, the bread basket of India, the evening will expose you to a culture that enjoys living life to its fullest. Enjoy live performances by a traditional “Bhangra” & “Gidda” troupe. In the evening witness Arti (Prayer ceremony) on the Ghats of River Ganges with a Hindu priest. The Aarti ceremony takes place each evening on the Ghats of Varanasi and is a process of worship of Goddess Ganges with various musical instruments and relaxing chants. This is truly a magical moment. |
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May 10, 2013 - Delhi |
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This morning we will have our Global Medicine lecture at the Hospital AIIMS for the Delegates. After the lecture, we will meet up with the rest of the group to go on our tour of Old and New Delhi. Delhi, the capital of India is nearly 5000 years old. Now a sprawling metropolis, Delhi has witnessed the rise and fall of many a regal dynasties. The rulers who have ruled here, tried to immortalise themselves by creating magnificent works of architecture. Even today the Delhi landscape is dotted with archaeological monuments and various places of architectural and cultural interest. Rub shoulders with the old and the antique as we take you on a tour of Old Delhi. The myriad lanes and by-lanes conjure up intriguing memories of Delhi's historic past. Old Delhi was an ancient walled city. Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in 1650 switched the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi. Shah Jehan possessing an exquisite talent, especially in architecture, created the seventh city and in the process brought about Delhi's glorious renaissance. Start off with a cycle rickshaw ride through Old Delhi. You will drive past Red Fort the most opulent fort and palace of the Mughal Empire. The fort is Shah Jehan's symbol of power and elegance, built behind red sandstone walls. Its main gate (Lahore Gate) faces Chandni Chowk, the avenue filled with twisting lanes, small streets and crowded bazaars. If you peer through a portico you may see a man getting shaved, silver being weighed, or any other conceivable form of intense commerce. Also visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India; and Chandni Chowk, the bustling and colourful market of the old city. Chandni Chowk was the commercial centre of Delhi in the old time and you will see it come alive in the morning as the trading day starts. After old Delhi sight seeing, lunch will be served at Q`BA. Centrally located in the inner circle of Connaught place, Q'BA restaurant and bar has quickly become the destination of choice for upmarket casual dinning in the capitol region. Two floors, spanning 14,000 sq. feet, greet guests as an oasis in this busy metropolis. After lunch, visit Gandhi House. Gandhi Smriti, is the sacred place where Mahatma Gandhi's epic life ended on 30 January 1948. Mahatma Gandhi had lived in this house from 9 September 1947 to 30 January 1948. The house treasures many memories of the last 144 days of his life. The Old Birla House was acquired by the Government of India in 1971 and was converted into a National Memorial of the Father of the Nation and was opened to the public on August 15, 1973. The house includes the room where Mahatma Gandhi lived and the prayer ground where he held a mass congregation every evening. It was here where assassin’s bullets felled Gandhiji. The building and the landscape have been preserved as they were in those days. On display in the museum are photographs, sculptures, paintings, frescos, inscriptions on rocks and relics pertaining to the years Mahatma Gandhi spent here. The meagre personal effects of Gandhiji too are carefully preserved. This afternoon will be at leisure at the hotel. Our farewell dinner will be at the hotel this evening prior to the departure for flights to North America. |
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