By Desis, for Desis and Everyone Else!!
What’s a Desi?
The term “desi” is a term that is commonly used by people from the Indian subcontinent to refer to themselves or other people (origin or ancestry) from the region.
The word “Desi” is derived from the Sanskrit word “desh,” which means “country” or “region” or “homeland”. (‘Sanskrit’ word ‘Desh’? What is Sanskrit?)
Did you ever wonder:
What is Indian culture like? Learn more!
Interesting facts about India you didn’t know about!
Explore Indian customs.
Traveling to India? You are in for a treat – Explore here!
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Desi people can come from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives. The term can also be used to describe aspects of Indian origin culture, including food, clothing, music, and art.
Angkor Wat
What is Angkor Wat?
Angkor Wat is a temple complex located in the city of Siem Reap in Cambodia. It was built in the early 12th century by the Khmer Empire, a powerful civilization that ruled over much of Southeast Asia from the 9th to the 15th century.
The Khmer Empire was responsible for constructing many impressive structures, including Angkor Wat, which is considered one of the most significant and impressive archaeological sites in Southeast Asia.
Who built Angkor Wat?
It was built during the reign of King Suryavarman II, who ruled from 1113 to 1150 AD. The temple complex was originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, but was later converted into a Buddhist temple in the 14th century.
Why is Angkor Wat popular?
Angkor, the largest pre-industrial city in the world, was more expansive than modern-day Los Angeles or Paris and ANY medieval European cities.
Flourishing around the 12th and 13th centuries, it spanned over 1,000 square kilometers with a population between 700,000 to 900,000.
Its urban planning and architecture were advanced, with extensive roads, canals, and sophisticated water management systems supporting its large population and agriculture.
Angkor Wat, the city’s centerpiece, showcased elaborate construction techniques and detailed stonework, illustrating the Khmer Empire’s cultural richness and organizational prowess. Compared to medieval London’s 50,000 residents, Angkor’s scale was monumental.
Angkor Wat is significant for its incredible architectural design and intricate carvings, which depict scenes from ancient Hindu epics and everyday life in ancient Cambodia. The temple complex is also a symbol of the Khmer Empire’s power and cultural achievements during its heyday.
The complex includes several smaller temples surrounding Angkor Wat such as Ta Prohm Temple which has been left mostly untouched since its discovery in 1858; Bayon Temple which features four giant stone faces carved into towers; Banteay Kdei Temple whose walls are decorated with intricate carvings depicting Hindu mythology; Preah Khan (Sacred Sword) Temple which contains some well-preserved sculptures from Buddhist iconography; Phnom Bakheng Hill where visitors can enjoy stunning views over Siem Reap city at sunset time ; Banteay Srei (“Citadel of Women”); and many more!
Who are the Khmer?
The Khmer people are an ethnic group that is native to Cambodia and parts of neighboring countries such as Vietnam and Thailand.
The Khmers have a long and complex history, and are believed to have originated from the Indian subcontinent.
They are related to the people of India and other parts of South Asia through a shared cultural and linguistic heritage, and were heavily influenced by Indian religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism.
What’s does India got to do with Angkor Wat?
The Khmer Empire was particularly influenced by Indian culture, and many of its art and architectural styles were inspired by Indian models.
For example, the design of Angkor Wat is believed to have been inspired by the Indian temple architecture of the Pallava dynasty in southern India. (See more South Indian temples)
The Khmer people also adopted many Hindu and Buddhist religious beliefs and practices from India, which greatly influenced their culture and way of life.
See this for more details and what to do when you visit Angkor Wat.
Deogiri Fort
In state of Maharashtra, near Aurangabad, there is a magnificent fort at Deogiri also known as the Daulatabad. It used to be called the Deogiri fort later renamed as the Daulatabad Fort. Get ready to step back in time and discover the origins, rise, and fall of this iconic structure.
The Story of the Deogiri fort
It’s story begins around the 12th century, approximately 800 years ago, in the heartland of India. At that time, Deogiri was a small village located in present-day Maharashtra. It was ruled by the ambitious Yadava dynasty, a clan of powerful warriors.
The Beginnings
In 1187 CE, the Yadava ruler Bhillama V founded a fortress atop a hill near Deogiri. This was the birth of the Deogiri Fort, which would later be renamed Daulatabad under the Delhi Sultanate. The strategic location of the hill made it an ideal spot for a fortress, providing a commanding view of the surrounding plains and enhancing its defensive capabilities.
Over time, the Yadavas transformed the fort into a formidable stronghold, fortifying it with thick stone walls, moats, and intricate defense mechanisms. The fort became renowned for its impregnability. The Yadavas dreamed of power, wealth, and prosperity.
Features
One of the most striking features of Daulatabad Fort was its majestic hilltop citadel. Perched at the summit, this inner fortress housed the royal palace, elegant courtyards, and luxurious chambers. The citadel was a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Yadava dynasty.
However, the fortunes of Deogiri Fort took a dramatic turn in the early 14th century, around 700 years ago.
Treachery – The Fort falls into enemy hands
The ambitious Sultan Alauddin Khalji of the Delhi Sultanate set his sights on the fort, determined to bring it under his rule.
The Sultan, knowing the fort was almost impregnable employed a clever strategy to deceive the defenders. He enlisted the services of an engineer named Malik Kafur, who pretended to be a defector and gained the trust of the Yadava rulers. With insider knowledge, Kafur meticulously studied the fort’s vulnerabilities and defense mechanisms.
Exploiting internal strife and creating confusion among the defenders, the Delhi Sultanate launched a surprise attack, breaching the supposedly impregnable gates and capturing the fort.
Legends of this time tell the tale of Harpaladeva, a fearless Yadava warrior known for his loyalty and valor. He valiantly defended the fort against the invading forces of the Delhi Sultanate. Despite his heroic efforts, the fort eventually succumbed to the relentless assault, and the Delhi Sultanate emerged victorious in 1296 CE, after a fierce battle.
They later renamed the city “Daulatabad”, meaning “City of Fortune”.
Through available stories, we glimpse the heroic defense of Harpaladeva and the treacherous tactics of Malik Kafur.
The fate of the Daulatabad Fort
Under the Delhi Sultanate, Daulatabad Fort witnessed a period of decline. Its strategic significance diminished, and the fort gradually lost its glory. The Sultanate rulers made some modifications to the fort but didn’t invest much effort in its upkeep.
In the centuries that followed, Daulatabad Fort changed hands multiple times, each transition leaving its mark on the fort’s architecture and history.
It passed from the Delhi Sultanate to the Bahmani Sultanate. One notable event occurred during the Mughal Empire, approximately 400 years ago, when Emperor Aurangzeb aimed to bring the Deccan region, including Daulatabad, under his control. After a prolonged siege, the Mughals conquered the fort in 1633 CE, utilizing their military might and strategic approach.
After the Mughals, it fell to the Marathas. Each new ruler left their mark on the fort, adding their architectural influences and adapting it to their needs.
By the 18th century, approximately 300 years ago, Daulatabad Fort had lost much of its military importance. It became more of a historical landmark than an active stronghold.
The British East India Company, who emerged as a dominant force in India during that time, took control of the fort, and it eventually fell into disuse.
Today, the Deogiri or Daulatabad Fort stands as a remarkable testament to India’s rich history. Its awe-inspiring architecture and storied past draw visitors from around the world. Exploring its winding passages, secret chambers, and panoramic views allows us to connect with the past and marvel at the triumphs and setbacks of those who built and fought for it.
So, there you have it—the captivating tale of the Deogiri or Daulatabad Fort. From its humble beginnings as a village fortress to its rise as an impregnable stronghold, and its eventual transformation into a historical landmark, this fort has witnessed the ebb and flow of empires.
It stands as a testament to the resilience of ancient civilizations and leaves us in awe of the remarkable achievements of India’s past.
Where is it, and how do we get there?
The Deogiri or Daulatabad Fort is located near the town of Daulatabad in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. It is approximately 16 kilometers northwest of Aurangabad city.
To reach the fort, one can travel to Aurangabad, which is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport, which has regular flights from major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Daulatabad.
If you prefer traveling by train, Aurangabad Railway Station is the closest major railway station. It is connected to various cities across the country. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Daulatabad.
Once you reach Daulatabad, you can easily access the fort. The fort is situated atop a hill, and there is a paved pathway leading to the entrance. However, do keep in mind that reaching the fort requires climbing a substantial number of steps, so it is advisable to wear comfortable footwear and carry water.
Guides are available at the fort entrance who can provide interesting insights and historical information about the fort. Exploring the fort can be a captivating experience as you wander through its ancient passages, marvel at its architectural wonders, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
It is worth noting that Daulatabad Fort is a popular tourist attraction, and it is advisable to plan your visit during weekdays or non-peak seasons to avoid crowds. Additionally, it is recommended to check local regulations and opening hours before planning your trip, as they may be subject to change.
So, pack your curiosity and embark on a memorable journey to the Deogiri or Daulatabad Fort, where history awaits to be discovered amidst the stunning landscapes of Maharashtra.
Historical Places
India is a land of rich history and culture, with a vast array of historical sites to see. From the ancient ruins of lost civilizations to the magnificent temples, forts and palaces, India is a treasure trove of historical wonders.
Explore the many historical places to see in India, from the well-known tourist destinations to the lesser-known gems. We will also cover historical places in neighboring countries that are influenced by Indian culture where possible.
Whether you are interested in ancient history or medieval architecture you will find something to interest you in India. So come along with us on a journey through the history of India, from the dawn of civilization to the very recent past.
The term Desi can refer to people of Indian subcontinent origin or ancestry, or it can refer to the cultural practices and products of the region.
Desi food, will include dishes such as biryani, Pongal, samosas, Dosa, Idli, Parantha, Chawal and dal, while Desi fashion may feature traditional clothing styles like sarees, salwar kameez, Dhoti, and kurta pajama.
Desi music may include traditional folk music (dozens of styles), classical music (also several distinct schools), traditional dance (several traditional and ancient styles) and popular movie or music genres like Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood, Mollywood (all different regional language film industry names – a play on the word Hollywood).
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