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Blood and Stone – Traveler’s Special

A very personal journey into the ruins of a vibrant city that was once Mandu, Madhya Pradesh

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A very personal journey into the ruins of a vibrant city that was once Mandu, Madhya Pradesh

Life has its own ways of surprising you. The surprises that it brings are sometimes pleasant, other times, not. But surprised, you always are. My marriage came as a surprise to me and so did ‘she’. Our trip to Mandu came out of the blue too. Sunil Bhai told me about the place in passing and I thought, “Why not?” A late honeymoon trip. A one day trip can hardly be called a honeymoon, but one has to make the most of what he has, right?

Mandu was a forgotten city. Forgotten by time and remembered by posterity. There is something poignant in seeing a ruin. It tells us that there were people there. The echoes of their laughter, the heat of their tears and the perspiration of their desires have found solace there. I thought it would be fitting to go to a place where one of the saddest love stories had ever taken place because there is fun in contradictions. This is what romanticism is like. The boundary between laughter and tears becomes a thin one; both always seep through the curtain, turning everything into a shade of grey and sweetly wet. We first visited theRoopmati’sPavillion. It was built by the Muslim ruler Baz Bahadur for his lady love Roopmati, the singer, the beauty. Baz was her first love and the second, the ‘Narmada river’. Legend has it that she would even refuse food without her customary Narmada Darshan. So the King decided to convert one of his sentry outposts into a viewing platform. A structure was made out of sandstone and this is now the Roopmati’s pavilion.

Mandu-Shiv-Mandir fwd life

Into another World

My Roopmati climbed the stairs and the wind caught her tresses and hurled them to me. I could almost see the princess’s dupatta catching the first rays of the sun reflected from the Narmada and I understood that there is nothing called as death. Well, there is the physical death, our body stops breathing and it starts getting smelly and all (it even happens to live humans too sometimes!), but our ideas, dreams and desires take another forms and live on and on.

The west end of the platform gives you the view of the Baz Bahadur palace, the King’s abode. We walked hand in hand to the palace and as we reached there, a gypsy started playing his flute. It was a transcending experience as the acoustic system of the palace reverberated the sound in ways that you thought was never possible.

In front of the palace, is The RewaKund, a reservoir which is believed to be replenished by the Narmada herself. Rani Roopmati could not see the Narmada on winter days and this ‘Kund’ was made by Baz Bahadur as an alternative. (The official view is that the RewaKund is basically for the water supply of The Pavillion and the Palace, but our guide was a romantic too.)

My better half looked at me like “Would you do anything like this if I demanded” and I looked at everything except her face and studied extensively about the roof of the palace and made a remarkable discovery too, “Birds can shit on history!!”

Mandu Shiv Mandir

Lanmarked-in-our-Hearts-fwdlife

The next stop was the Mandu Shiv Mandir. If you are talking of “contradictions” then you can’t keep this special little place out of it. Here sits Shiva in the midst of a completely Muslim setting and he feels very content too. Tarangas, Khiljis, Mughals, Rajputs and Marathas have fought, killed and died for this hill-fort and all the stones here are steeped in blood. This place was once a Muslim inn, but the Marathas took it over and turned it into a Shiva shrine. As Gods don’t have much of the ‘communal blood’, Shiva seemed very pleasant here too. After seeing the Jami Masjid (fashioned after the mosque of Damascus) and Thehoshang’s tomb near it (the Taj Mahal is purported to be modelled after this) we entered the Jahaz Mahal. This wonderful architectural marvel had a story of another kind of love. The love of ‘just one night’. The maker of this beautiful structure was Ghiyathud Din and he was a playboy, to use a modern word. He used to fill this structure, which is situated between 2 man-made lakes, with women and have his fun! At the time of rain, the 2 lakes would overflow and the water would touch the walls and it would feel like a ship, that’s why the name The Ship palace (Jahaz means vehicle). My wife looked at me while the guide explained this and I set my face at “AyyoPaavam” mode and I thought I passed! The Roopmati’s living quarters was adjacent to the Jahaz Mahal and it looked ‘stripped’. “This was a multi-storied structure sahib, but an earthquake floored it,”the guide explained. The place looked like a lost love and that’s what exactly happened to the couple. When Adham Khan attacked Mandu at the behest of Akbar, Baz Bahadur went into exile to amass more manpower and Adham khan besieged mandu. Adham thought Mandu was the most precious jewel in his kitty until he saw Roopmati. It is said that it was an evening and Roopmati was crying. The redness of her eyes matched the horizon’s and Adham Khan was instantly mesmerised. He asked her hand in marriage and she gave up her life rather than surrendering. The wind caught up with us again and we sat on the stairs which used to lead to the next floor, now there was nothing there. I could see the Hindola Mahal in front of us where Roopmati used to entertain and sing for her love. Love, what a word, what a feeling, I caught my wife’s hand and she smiled again, but this time a sad one, though.

Lanmarked in our Hearts

Mandu is going to stay etched in our minds for some time to come. That’s the thing about past. It reminds us that we will also be ‘past’! There is an undeniable beauty in remembering it, in spelling out the names that are long forgotten, in reliving an experience that’s already done with. It’s like living again and again.

Words and Photographs by Arjun M K

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Travel Wellness: Staying Healthy and Fit While Exploring

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Travelling is an enriching experience that broadens horizons and creates lasting memories. However, maintaining your health and fitness while on the road can be a challenge. Whether you’re navigating busy city streets, lounging on a beach, or embarking on an adventure, staying well and fit is crucial for enjoying your travels to the fullest. Here are some practical tips to help you stay healthy and active while exploring new destinations.

Plan Your Travel Meals

Eating healthy while traveling can be challenging, but with a little planning, it’s entirely achievable. Research local cuisine before your trip and seek out restaurants or markets that offer nutritious options. Opt for meals that include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. If you’re staying in a place with a kitchen, consider preparing some of your meals to maintain control over ingredients and portions.

Stay Hydrated

Travel can easily disrupt your hydration routine. Always carry a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly. Drinking enough water helps with digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being. If you’re traveling to a place with different water quality, consider bringing a portable water purifier or sticking to bottled water.

Incorporate Physical Activity

Finding time to exercise while traveling can be tough, but it’s essential for maintaining your fitness and energy levels. Here are a few ways to stay active:

  • Use Hotel Gyms: Many hotels offer fitness centers. Utilize these facilities to keep up with your workout routine.
  • Explore on Foot: Walking or biking around your destination not only provides exercise but also allows you to experience the city’s sights more intimately.
  • Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of local outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, or even a beach workout.

Maintain a Sleep Schedule

Traveling at first class. Flight with comfort. Pretty young woman sleeping in airplane.

Adjusting to new time zones can disrupt your sleep pattern, which affects overall health. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule by setting consistent bedtimes and wake-up times. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or listening to calming music, can also help you wind down and improve sleep quality.

Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management

Travel can be exciting but also stressful. Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to manage stress and maintain mental well-being. Many travel destinations offer wellness retreats or classes where you can participate in mindfulness activities.

Pack a Travel Health Kit

Prepare a travel health kit with essentials like vitamins, medications, and first-aid supplies. Include items such as hand sanitizer, travel-sized disinfectant wipes, and any prescription medications you may need. Having these on hand can help prevent illness and manage minor health issues.

Stay Active During Travel

Long flights or car rides can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Take breaks to stretch or walk around every few hours. Simple exercises like seated leg lifts, neck stretches, and shoulder rolls can help improve circulation and reduce muscle tension.

Adopt Local Wellness Practices

Explore and embrace local wellness practices and traditions. Whether it’s a traditional Thai massage, Japanese hot springs, or Ayurvedic treatments in India, incorporating local wellness practices can enhance your overall travel experience and contribute to your well-being.

 Avoid Overindulgence

While it’s tempting to indulge in local delicacies, moderation is key. Balance indulgent meals with healthier options and be mindful of portion sizes. Enjoying treats in moderation allows you to savor local flavors without compromising your health goals.

Stay Social and Connected

Social interactions and maintaining connections with loved ones can boost mental health and overall happiness. Make time to connect with fellow travelers, locals, or family and friends back home to keep your spirits high and your travel experience fulfilling.

By integrating these wellness tips into your travel routine, you can ensure a healthier and more enjoyable journey. Staying active, eating well, and managing stress will help you feel your best and make the most of your travel experiences. Safe travels and happy exploring!

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Real House of the Dragon Location You Want to Visit

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Returning to Westeros for the battle between the Blacks and Greens in “House of the Dragon” season two. A civil war within the House of Targaryen over who should inherit the Iron Throne is the subject of the television drama series, which is based on George R. R. Martin’s Fire & Blood and takes place two centuries before Game of Thrones. Along with other important members of the season one ensemble, Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower, Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen, and Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen are returning for the presently running second season.

We can’t wait to explore all of the amazing filming locations that this series has brought us. Considering how rich the universe is, it makes sense. Rather than depending solely on computer-generated scenery and soundstages, several of the actual filming locales contribute to the world of Westeros’ distinctive atmosphere.

Here, a guide to House of the Dragon filming locations you can visit:

Castleton, Derbyshire, England

In the first season of the show, Castleton, a village in high-peaked Derbyshire with one of the oldest lead mines, was transformed into The Vale of Arryn. Those who watch Game of Thrones would recall this as the location of House Arryn and the Eyrie, a stronghold where adversaries can be driven to their deaths via a moon portal. The region, which was once inhabited by Celtic people, is well-known for its traditional English hamlets and the limestone valley of Cave Dale, which is located inside the national park.

St. Michael’s Mount in Mount’s Bay, Cornwall, England

St. Michael’s Mount is a rocky tidal island with a 12th-century mediaeval church and a small, intimate village connected to the island of Marazion by a causeway that visitors can cross on foot during low tide. Blackwater Bay, a sizable body of water at Kings Landing’s edge, is home to House Velaryon, the fictional Driftmark of House of the Dragon, which is housed in the island’s main fortress. A prior appearance of Driftmark occurred in the Battle of the Blackwater in Game of Thrones.

La Calahorra, Granada, Spain

Reimagined as Pentos, one of the cities bordering the seas of Westeros, the imaginary continent at the heart of the world of Game of Thrones, is the municipality La Calahorra in eastern Granada. At the base of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, on the solitary hill in the region, lies a mediaeval fortress known as Castillo de La Calahorra, one of the region’s most iconic monuments. The exterior of the castle, which serves as the seat of House Targaryen on House of the Dragon, defies the rules of Gothic design, making it one of the first buildings in Spain to be influenced by the Renaissance between 1509 and 1512. Its exquisite split-level interior features a centre courtyard, four corner towers, and marble.

Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain

The province of Cáceres, in western Spain, is a veritable time capsule. Ancient structures that date back hundreds of years nevertheless look substantially the same, displaying a variety of architectural influences, such as Roman, Moorish, and Gothic. Several locations in the region were used to film the King’s Landing sequences, including the walled city of Plasencia in season one, Trujillo in season two, and the capital city of Cáceres in both seasons.

Bourne Wood in Farnham, England

Bourne Wood was the location of one of the largest fight scenes from season two of House of the Dragon. Large clearings in the forest make it perfect for expansive combat scenes and large film crews, while the absence of newer, more contemporary buildings or power lines gives the location a timeless sense. According to London Cult’s documentation, the forest was outfitted with a tent camp and certain areas were covered in artificial snow. The woodland is about an hour’s drive away, making the setting very handy for films like House of the Dragon that are headquartered out of the Warner Bros. Leavesden studio.

Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country, Spain

An island in Biscay called Gaztelugatxe has a hermitage that goes back to the tenth century. The iconic stone bridge was used for filming House of the Dragon. In season seven, the islet served as a stand-in for Dragonstone during filming for Game of Thrones. the location of the initial season’s encounter between Rhaenyra and her dragon on Dragonstone Bridge.

 

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Essential Summer Travel Bag Must-Haves

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As the summer sun beckons, it’s time to dust off your travel bags and embark on exciting adventures. Whether you’re jetting off to exotic destinations or exploring hidden gems closer to home, packing the right essentials can make all the difference in ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey. Join me as we explore the must-have items to pack in your travel bags for a memorable summer getaway.

Sun Protection Essentials:

Beat the heat and safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays with sun protection essentials. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses to shield your eyes, and a wide-brimmed hat for added protection. Additionally, lip balm with SPF and aloe vera gel can provide relief from sunburns and keep your lips hydrated.

Lightweight Clothing Options:

Embrace the spirit of summer with lightweight and breathable clothing options that keep you cool and comfortable on your travels. Pack versatile pieces such as cotton shirts, shorts, flowy dresses, and swimsuits for beach outings. Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics to minimize the need for ironing and save space in your luggage.

Hydration Essentials:

Stay hydrated on the go by packing a reusable water bottle in your travel bag. Fill it up whenever you have access to clean drinking water to quench your thirst and reduce plastic waste. Consider packing electrolyte packets or tablets to replenish lost minerals during outdoor activities or hot weather.

Travel-Friendly Toiletries:

Travel toiletries in clear plastic, quart-sized bag on white background

Streamline your toiletry bag with travel-sized essentials that meet TSA regulations and save space in your luggage. Pack items such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and moisturizer in leak-proof containers. Don’t forget to include a compact travel towel and wet wipes for quick refreshment on the go.

Tech Gadgets and Accessories:

Capture unforgettable moments and stay connected with essential tech gadgets and accessories. Pack your smartphone, camera, or GoPro along with chargers, power banks, and adapters for international travel. Consider investing in a lightweight and portable Bluetooth speaker for impromptu beach parties or outdoor picnics.

First Aid Kit and Medications:

Home first aid kit on a blue background. The elements of the first aid kit are laid out on the table.

Be prepared for minor emergencies and health-related issues by packing a well-stocked first aid kit in your travel bag. Include items such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antihistamines, and motion sickness tablets. Don’t forget to pack any prescription medications you may need during your trip.

With these essential items packed in your travel bag, you’re ready to embark on a summer adventure filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. From sun protection essentials to tech gadgets and first aid supplies, being prepared for every situation ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey wherever your travels may take you. So, grab your bags, soak up the sun, and let the summer adventures begin!

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