My Colourfull India Book-A

Garo Hills Nohkalikai Falls Mawsmai Cave GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: The state is a mix of mountainous terrain and vast valleys and highland plateaus. The state also has many rivers that are filled with rainfall and many are seasonal. Parts of the state experience high temperatures for a major part of the year, while areas with higher elevation experience a much lower temperature. ART Meghalaya is known for a wide variety of crafts, most popular of which are the cane and bamboo products. Other crafts include woodcarving, ornament making and carpet weaving. Bamboo Art Cane Art Wood-Carving Ornaments Wall Hanging Arts Carpet Weaving 51

Mizoram ? Mizoram is one of the Seven Sisters that Did You make up the seven states of Northeast India. Know Mizoram simply means the “land of the hill people”- (mi or people, zo or lofty place and Mizoram has the ram or land). highest number of tribal population among all the Indian states, with 95% of its current population being of tribal origin. State Bird: Mrs. Hume’s Pheasant State Flower: State Tree: Red Vanda Indian Rose Chestnut State Animal: Serow 52

WHAT DO THEY EAT? Rice is the most popular with the people accompanied by fish, meats and vegetables. Bamboo shoots are an integral part of the cuisine. Bai, steamed vegetables with pork and bamboo shoots and Vawksa Rep, smoked pork dish are a popular choice. Koat Pitha which is rice flour and banana fritters as well as Misa Mach Poora, shrimps cooked with onions, coriander and lime juice can be tried to get the flavours of the state. Vawksa Rep Misa Mach Poora Koat Pitha Bai PLACES TO SEE STATE SYMBOL As with other hill states, Mizoram abounds in natural beauty with rolling hills. It offers home to much wildlife which can be seen in the Murlen national Park. Durtlang hills are another beautiful site to behold. Solomon’s temple, Lamsial Puk and the Reiek Heritage village as well as Burra bazar should be visited by all who go to Mizoram to get a fell and pulse of the people and place. Durtlang Hills Lamsial Puk Murlen Solomon’s National Park Temple 53

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: A landlocked state, Mizoram is made up of rolling hills, valleys, rivers and lakes. The biggest river in the state is Chhimtuipui and its biggest lake is the Palak Lake. Mizoram has the highest area (percentage wise) that is covered in forests. The state has a mild climate, with cool summers, little rain and cool winters. ART Art and craft occupies an important part of the market in Mizoram. The various crafts include textile weaving and bamboo and cane products. The women play an important role in the weaving of beautiful products that are famous internationally. Another important craft of Mizoram includes the basketry industry. Textile Weaving Bamboo Crafts Cane Crafts Basketry Crafts Womens Bamboo Dance Hand Made Crafts 54

Nagaland ? Nagaland is a state that is part of the Did You northeastern states. The entire state with the Know exception of a small area is mostly full of hills and mountains. The highest peak in Nagaland stands tall at a height of 3,840 metres and is a natural division between Nagaland and Burma. State Flower: STATE SYMBOL Tree State Bird: Blyth’s Tragopan Rhododendron State Tree: Alder State Animal: Mithun 55

WHAT DO THEY EAT? Like all eastern states the nagas love their Rice and have it with everything. Axone (fermented soyabean), Anishi ( dry Colocassia) and Bamboo shoot are the main ingredients used in cooking. Samantha is pork with fermented soyabean, Aikibeye, mustard leaf with colocassia are popular dishes besides Bushmeat as dog meat is called is a delicacy and there are a variety of insects on the menu too, if one is up to some food adventure. Axone Samantha Bushmeat PLACES TO SEE The Naga hills have breathtaking natural beauty and has a lot to offer to nature lovers like Dzukou valley and Jafu peak and many rivers criss crossing the state. Needless to say there are national parks and sanctuaries to go to. The Kisama Heritage village which gives a peak into the Naga life and the Kachari Ruins should definitely be on the list of every visitor. The Hornbill festival is a rollicking lively affair with music,dance and great food which shows the cultural as well as the fun side of the Naga life. War cemetary is sombre but good place to visit. Kachari Ruins Dzukou Valley Hornbill Festival 56

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: Nagaland is mostly a mountainous state with the Naga Hills rising from the Brahmaputra Valley. Various rivers divide the state and almost a quarter of the land is covered in forest area. Nagaland has high humidity and a monsoon climate with temperatures that do not drop too low in the winters. ART Nagaland is known for beautiful unique style of weaving, embroidery, wood carvings and basket making. The traditional ornaments are made of multi- strands of colourful glass beads, stones, bones and shells and ivory and brass. Cloth painting is a very popular form of painting in Nagaland. Nagaland is also known for unique styles of pottery, cane and bamboo work and metal works. Textile Weaving Metal Crafts Ornaments Brass Work Cloth Painting Bone & Shells Craft 57

Odisha ? Odisha, formerly known as Orissa, is a state Did You in the South-East part of India. The name Know ‘Odisha” was derived from the Prakrit word “Odda Visaya”- a Tirumalai inscription. The famous Jagannath Temple in Puri has the biggest kitchen in the world, with a capacity to cook for a lakh devotees a day. STATE SYMBOL State Animal: Sambar State Tree: Indian Fig Tree State Bird: Blue Jay State Flower: Ashoka 58

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: Most of the state is covered in mountain ranges, with deep broad valleys made by rivers. The state also has a plateau region and fertile lands. Odisha has four main climates, namely winter, pre-monsoon, south-west monsoon season and north east monsoon season. WHAT DO THEY EAT? Sea food rules in Odisha with Rice being the staple. The food is flavourful and not not very spicy. Chundi malai, a prawn curry, Macha Ghanta, fish curry and Dalma which is roasted moong dal with vegetables are a popular choice. Rasabali is a sweet meat soaked in thick flavoured milk to end the meal. Chundi Malai Macha Ghanta Rasabali Dalma PLACES TO SEE The famous Jagannath temple tops the list of places to visit besides Konark Sun temple and the Lingaraj Temple. Dhauli Giri Hills, Mangrove wetlands of Bhitarkanika and the Konark beach are popular sites. Chilika lake is a place you can actually see the Dolphins and migratory birds. Nandankanan zoological park and Mayurbhank rocks may also be visited if you have enough time. Jagannath Temple, Puri Lingaraj Temple Puri Sea Beach 59

Nandankanan Chilika Lake- Asia’s Sun Temple, Konark Zoological Park Largest Water Lake ART Odisha has a rich culture and heritage. It has a unique art form that is reflective of its culture. The handicraft forms include applique work, brass and bell metal work. Odisha is known for silver filigree jewellery and stone carving. The state is also popular for the ‘baluchari’ style of textiles and saris. Applique Work Brass Work Bell Metal Work Silver Filigree Stone Carving Textiles And Saris Jewellery 60

Punjab ? The land of India’s music lovers, Punjab is Did You a state located in the northern part of India. Know The name Punjab was made from the Persian words, panj (five) and âb (waters). The capital of Punjab- It is the land of five rivers. Chandigarh is also a Union Territory. State Flower: Lilium STATE SYMBOL State Bird: Baaz State Animal: State Tree: Blackbuck Sheesham 61

WHAT DO THEY EAT? Sarson ka saag, Makki ki Roti is the epitome of Punjabi cuisine besides the deletable Tandoori and Butter Chicken. Rajma, Cholle Bhatur, Amritsari machchi and Gajar ka Halwa to top it all. Lassi is an all time favourite. Food is a big part of punjabi culture and it will not disappoint. Amritsari Fish Sarson Ka Saag Rajma Tandoori Cholle Bhature Chicken GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: A vast part of Punjab lies on a large alluvial plain, with many rivers flowing across it, making the land fertile and perfect for agriculture. Due to its geography and location, Punjab experiences a large variation of temperatures throughout the year. The state has four mains seasons- hot, rainy, autumn and cold season. PLACES TO SEE The foremost place that comes to mind when one lands in Punjab is the Golden temple for piety and peace besides the Jallianwala Bagh which is a humbling site. Wagah border ceremony is a must see for the sheer enthusiasm and patriotism it enthuses. Sukhna Lake, Rock and Rose Garden besides various others are a hallmark of Chandigarh. Harike Bird sanctuary is another popular safari. Jallianwala Bagh Golden Temple Harike Wetland 62

Bhakra Nangal Sukhna Lake Wagah Border Dam Ceremony ART Punjabi art and culture is very distinctive and reflects the bold and larger than life personality of its land ad people. Home to the ‘Punjabi Film Industry’, popularly known as ‘Pollywood’, Punjab’s folk heritage reflects thousands of years of ancient history. From colourful Phulkari textiles to unique Punjabi juttis, Punjab has a signature style that is recognizable the world over. Hand Made Crafts Cultural Art Craft Work Basketry Punjabi Juti Fulkari Work 63

Rajasthan ? Rajasthan is an Indian state located in the Did You northwestern part of India. Filled with Know beautiful palaces and forts, Rajasthan is a reminder of the historical kingdoms that The name ‘Rajasthan’ existed long ago. first appeared in 1829 in a publication. STATE SYMBOL State Animal: Camel & Chinkara State Bird: State Flower: State Tree: Godawan Rohida Khejri 64

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: The most prominent geographical features of Rajasthan are the Thar Desert and the Aravalli Ranges that run from one end of the state to the other. And the Ghaggar River that flows from Haryana into Rajasthan’s Thar Desert becomes a stream and then disappears in the sands of the desert. The lands to the east and south of the Aravalli range have better water and are more fertile. As a result that area is home to some lush deciduous forests. WHAT DO THEY EAT? The food of Rajasthanis spicy and laden in ghee suited to the arid climate. Lal maas, a spicy meat curry, Dal batti Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, gramflour dumplings in a gravy, Bajre ki roti are the hallmarks of Rajasthani cuisine. Ghevar is a traditional crunchy disc shaped mawa sweet typical of the region. Raabri Gatte ki Dal Batti Lal Ghevar Bajre Ki Sabzi Churma Maas Roti PLACES TO SEE Forts and palaces abound in this princely state. Hawa Mahal, Umaid Bhawan, Rambagh Palace, Amber Fort are just a few popular ones. Ranthambore National Park and Pushkar Desert festival are a delight if you are there in the right season. Hawa Mahal Umaid Bhawan Mount Abu 65

Jal Mahal Amber Fort Pushkar Desert ART Festival Rajasthan is a state that is rich in art and crafts, with the use of extensive colours and fascinating forms that stand apart amongst handicraft items from across the country. From the typical lahiriya print of tie and die in fabrics, to block printing, zari and gota pati work and the beautiful zardozi work on fabrics, Rajasthan has a huge variety in terms of textiles and fabrics. Rajasthan also offers carpets and durries, ivory carvings and shellac antiques, unique silver jewellery and jewellery in the typical kundan work as well as made of lac and glass, leather works, pottery, puppetry, stone carvings and paintings that include the trademark miniature paintings typical of Rajasthan. Hand Stitched Ivory Art Miniature Painting Cloth Colourful Umbrella Wooden Paint Kathputli Dance 66

Sikkim ? Sikkim is a state in northeast India and is Did You one of the seven sisters. From the Himalayas Know to valleys and meadows, Sikkim has a very dramatic landscape. Sikkim is a multi-ethnic state and has 11 official languages. State Animal: STATE SYMBOL Red Panda State Flower: State Bird: State Tree: Dendrobium Blood Pheasant Rhododendron Nobile 67

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: Literally nesting in the Himalayan ranges, the state of Sikkim is a mountainous state. While some slopes in the region are converted into terrace farms, most of the area is not suitable for agriculture and farming. There are hot springs in the region that are known for their medicinal and therapeutic value. The state experiences 5 seasons, winter, summer, spring, autumn and monsoon. WHAT DO THEY EAT? Noodles and soups are a part of the Sikkimese cuisine. Momos and Thukpa are instantly recognisable, Churpi, a fermented dairy product, Thenthuk, a thick noodle soup and Phagshapa, sliced pork dish with radish and chilly are the other yummy foods to try there. Churpi Momos Phagshapa Thenthuk PLACES TO SEE Nesting in the Himalayas, Sikkim is a mountainous state with beautiful landscapes. Lake Tso Mgo, Nathula Pass, Yumthang valley, Kanchanjunga Falls are some of the scenic places in the state. Yuksom town and Rumtek monastery are other popular tourist destinations. Changu Lake Nathu La Pass Rumtek Monastery 68

Gurudongmar Lake Yumthang Valley Kanchanjunga Falls ART Just like the dazzling beauty of the state, the crafts and art of the state also reflect eye-catching products and handicrafts. From carpet weaving to woodcarving, Sikkim has incredible and unique handicrafts. The Thangka paintings and Choktse tables are a trademark of the state. Stone Carving Carpet Weaving Choktse Tables Wood Carving Woollen Shawl Thangka Paintings 69

Tamil Nadu ? Tamil Nadu, a state in south India, is known Did You for its beautiful temples that are completely Know unique in their design. The town of Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu is located at the southern most part of India. State fruit: State Animal: Jackfruit Nilgiri Tahr State Bird: State Flower: State Tree: Emerald dove Glorisa Lily Palm tree 70

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: Tamil Nadu has a mix of hilly terrain in the western part and fertile coastal plains in the eastern part of the state. It also has the second longest coast line in the country. Due to its terrain and proximity to the Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea, Tamil Nadu is mostly dependent on the monsoons. The climate in the state ranges from dry semi-humid to semi-arid. WHAT DO THEY EAT? Rice, curries, and chutneys are the choice of food of the region. Chettinad cooking is something whuch must be tasted, Thalappakatti Biryani, Rasam, Sambar and Poriyal are instant hits with tourists and locals alike and Filter coffee to down it all. Poriyal Sambar Rasam Chettinad Filter Coffee PLACES TO SEE This state has an overwhelming number of temples, Meenakshi and Ramanthaswamy Temple being the most prominent on the list. Vivekanand Rock Memorial in Kanya Kumari, the southernmost tip of India, Mahabalipuram, Marina Beach and Fort St. George are the other places to enjoy when you have had your fill of the Temples. The beautiful Nilgiri mountains are another option. Ramanthaswamy Temple Fort St. George Meenakshi Amman Temple 71

Vivekanand Rock Marina Beach Mahabalipuram Memorial ART Tamil Nadu has its own unique art and culture that stands out through its handicrafts and art. The famous ‘Tanjore’ paintings that are a hallmark of India’s cultural heritage originate in this state. The state is also known for its woodcrafts, musical instruments, pottery and stone carving. Beautiful gold jewellery with intricate patterns are another popular reflection of the state’s culture. Stone Crafts Musical Tanjore Painting Instruments Gold Jewellery Cane Weaving Wood Carving 72

Telangana ? Telangana is a newly formed state of India Did You came into existence in 2014 It is situated in Know the southern part of India. The name ‘Telangana’ State Fruit: Mango is derived from the Sanskrit word Trilinga meaning ‘The country of the three lingas’? Lord Shiva is said to have descended on the three mountains that mark the boundary of Telangana. State Animal: Spotted Deer State Bird: State Flower: State Tree: Indian Roller Tangedu Puvvu Jammi Chettu 73

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: The state of Telangana is situated on the Deccan Plateau and is drained by two major rivers and many minor ones. The state has a semi arid climate that is predominantly hot and dry. WHAT DO THEY EAT? Rich food of the Nawabs there is the famed Hyderabadi Biryani with Mirchi Ka Salan, Paaya, goat trotter soup, Golichina Mamsam, a mutton in a spicy thick gravy. Mirchi vada is popular snack and the rich creamy Khubani ka Meetha, apricot flavored dessert and Shahi Tukra are an entrancing dessert. Paaya Golichina Hyderabadi Khubani Ka Mirchi Ka Mamsam Biryani Meetha Salan PLACES TO SEE Telangana has a range of places to offer to a visitor from old forts and Bazars to the new and modern. Golconda Fort, Charminar, Warangal fort are places of historic interest whereas Ramoji Film city is the way to spend the entire day lost in the make believe world of Cinema. Salarjung Musuem, Pakhal Lake, Kakatiya kala Thoranam, Nehru planetarium are a few other worthwhile places to visit. Kota Gullu Ramoji Film City Golkonda Fort Temple Ruins 74

Charminar Kakatiya Kala Pakhal Lake ART Thoranam Telangana has a beautiful mix of cultures that are a combination of Persian traditions, from the time of the Mughuls rule and South Indian traditions. This cultural heritage is depicted through dance forms, music and paintings. Telangana is also known for its beautiful ‘dokra’ art sculptures and figurines. Mughuls Art South Indian Heritage Art Tratdition Dokra Art Sculpture Art Figurines Telangana 75

Tripura ? Tripura is a hilly state in the northeast part Did You of India. The third smallest state in the Know country, Tripura is surrounded by Bangladesh on three sides and is a beautiful mix of tribal Modern day Tripura culture and religious groups. was ruled by a dynasty known as Tripuri for State Flower: centuries and was an Indian Rose independent princely state. Chestnut State Bird: State Animal: STATE SYMBOL Green Imperial Phayre’s Leaf State tree: Agar wood Pigeon Monkey 76

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: A land locked state; hilly mountain ranges, valleys and plains characterize Tripura. In fact, the rocks in the area were studied and dated back to more than 34 to 23 million years. The state enjoys a tropical savanna type of climate with four main seasons, winter, pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon. WHAT DO THEY EAT? Rice, bamboo shoot and fermented fish are the most used in the cuisine. Mosdeng Serma is a tomato chutney with dried fish, Bhangui Rice, made with ghee,ginger and onion. One should also definitely try the Kasoi Betwi which is mixed green vegetables with Tofu and Wahan Mosdeng, pork dumplings for a full meal. Fermented fish though is an acquired taste. Kasoi Betwi Bangui Rice Fermented Fish Bhangui ART Tripura is known primarily for its cane and bamboo handicrafts and other items such as furniture, utensils, idols, mats, baskets, etc. Bamboo Furniture Utensils Gold Statues 77

Mats Cane Work Cane Sculptures PLACES TO SEE A land of immense beauty as well culture the visitors can see the Ujjayanta Temple, Neermahal Palace, Unakoti, Tripura sundari Temple and move on to take in the flora , fauna and the beauty of Dumboor Lake and Sepahijala Wildlife sanctuary. Tripura Sundari Temple Neermahal Unakoti Ujjayanta Palace Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary Jampui Hill 78

Uttar Pradesh ? Uttar Pradesh is located in the northern Did You region of India and is the most populated Know state of India with Hindi being spoken in 75 districts. The state was home to powerful Uttar Pradesh has empires and kingdoms in the olden days. more than 200 million inhabitants. STATE SYMBOL State Flower: Palash State Animal: Barasingha State Bird: State Tree: Sarus Crane Ashoka 79

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: While the Northern part of the state is bordered by the Himalayan mountain range, most of the state if covered in plains and a plateau region to the south. The plains are fertile and well drained by many rivers, and hence have extensive cultivation undertaken. UP has a humid subtropical climate with extremely hot summers , monsoons and cool winters. WHAT DO THEY EAT? The food ranges from simple to very rich. Bedhai, puri with potato sabzi) and Tehri, a vegetable rice dish make up the evryday food whereas Galouti Kebab, Dum Aloo and Biryanis offer the festive fare. Uttar Pradesh is well known for it’s street foods like Chaat, Kachori and Paan. Kulfi, a mawa based ice cream is popular all over the country. Kulfi Galouti Kebab Bedhai Dum Aloo Tehri PLACES TO SEE The land of the Taj mahal which is best known the World over Uttar Pradesh has mch more to offer from forts to wildlife parks and temples. Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Bara Imambara are places of historic interest whereas Jim Corbett National Park, Sankat Mochan Hanuman temple and the Ganges offer the natural and religious fulillment to a tourist’s itinerary. Taj Mahal Triveni Sangam Fatehpur Sikri 80

Vindhyachal Devi Kashi Vishvanath Dudhwa National Temple Temple Park ART Uttar Pradesh has a vast cultural heritage that is displayed through every art form in the state. From beautiful ‘chikan’ and ‘mukesh’ work done on textiles and fabrics to the intricate zari embroidery work, fabric printing, breathtaking stone craft, glassware and carpet weaving; Uttar Pradesh has much to offer as a reflection of its culture. Stone Art Carpet Weaving Zari Embroidery Art Work Sand Art Brass Work Traditional Painting 81

Uttarakhand ? Uttarakhand is a state in the northern part Did You of India and became a state in the year Know 2000. It literally means ‘Northern land’, and is mentioned in the Hindu scriptures. There is archeological evidence to support the fact that there have been humans in this region since prehistoric times. State Bird: Himalayan Monal STATE SYMBOL State Animal: State Flower: State Tree: Alpine Musk Deer Brahma Kamal Burans 82

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: Uttarakhand is a mountainous state crossed by the Himalayas. In fact the state lies on the southern slope of the Himalayas. While 86% of the state has a hilly terrain, forests cover 65%. The Ganga River originates in the Himalayas in this state and flows through it. WHAT DO THEY EAT? The food has mostly vegetarian with non vegetarians served on occasions. Tomatoes are hardly used. Kafuli, a spinach and fenugreek dish, Phaanu, mixed lentil dish, Kandalee Ka Saag, Bicchu ghaas saag, Dubuk, winter dish of lentils are the dishes typically from the region. Jhangora ki Kheer, Millet kheer is a popular dessert. Kandalee Ka Phaanu Kafuli Jhangora Ki Kheer Dubuk Saag PLACES TO SEE The beautiful land of hills and mountains has numerous temples and natural beauty. Bhimtal Lake, Sahastradhara, Valley of flowers,Nanda Devi Temple, Har ki pauri, Kedarnath Temple, Badrinath Temple are just the more well known ones. River rafting and other adventure sports are there for those who seek thrills. Kedarnath Temple Nainital Lake Nanda Devi 83

Badrinath Har Ki Pauri Jim Corbett Temple National Park ART Woodcarving is a prominent craft in the region. In fact, these woodcarvings also decorate temples in Uttarakhand. Paintings and murals typical of this region are seen in homes and temples. Two forms of art- Garhwali art (known for its closeness to nature) and Kumaoni art (geometrical) stand apart but are both stunning in their own ways. Beautiful handcrafted gold jewellery; basketry, shawls, scarves and rugs are other crafts found in the State. Jewellery Basketry Shawls Scarves Painting Kumaoni Art 84

West Bengal ? West Bengal is a state located in eastern Did You India, between the Bay of Bengal and the Know Himalayas. The state still retains a hint of the past as a trading port for the British. Many famous personalities like Swami State Animal: Vivekananda, Fishing Cat Rabindranath Tagore, Subhash Chandra Bose and many many others are all from West Bengal. STATE SYMBOL State Bird: State Flower: State Tree: White-Throated Night-Flower Chatim Tree Kingfisher Jasmine 85

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: Known as the ‘Eastern Bottleneck’ of India, West Bengal stretches from the mountainous terrain in the north to the coastal area in the south. The River Ganga divides within the state and creates a delta where the Sundarban mangrove forest has grown. The climate in the state varies with a change in the land. The main seasons in the state are summer, rainy, autumn and winter. WHAT DO THEY EAT? Rice and Fish are a must in every meal. All parts of the fish are eaten. Macher Jhol, a curd based fish curry, Bhapa Aloo, potatoes cooked with spices and coconut, Chingri malai, prawns cooked in coconut milk and Baingan Bhaja, eggplant fritters are part of meals. West bengal is famous for it’s milk and chenna based sweets all over the country. Sandesh and Rasogulla making it to the top of the list. Chingri Malai Sandesh Baingan Bhaja Macher Jhol Bhapa Aloo PLACES TO SEE A state rich in culture and British influences it has for the discerning traveler the Victoria memorial, Bishnupur Terracotta temples, Darjeeling Himalayan railway, Dakshineshwar Kali temple and Howrah Bridge. Sundarbans and the Jaldapara national Park are the epitome of the what nature has to offer Bengal. Darjeeling Himalayan Sundarban National Park Victoria Memorial, Railway Kolkata 86

Howrah Bridge Mandarmani Kalighat Kali Beach Temple ART The state has a rich heritage in handloom weaving and is responsible for producing beautiful weaves, including jamdani, tant, garad, baluchari, tussar silk and muslin. The reason for such a variety of weaves is that every district in the state has a weaving ‘cluster’ specializing in one type of weave. West Bengal is also known for its schools of fine art, which were the forerunners of modernism. Examples of the states art forms are reflected in the terracotta art of temples and Kalighat paintings among others. Jewellery Basketry Shawls Jamdani Sarees Painting Terracota Work 87

The Union Territories Of India A union territory is an administrative division in the Republic of India. This status is given for reasons such as safe guarding indigenous culture or avoid- ing political turmoil. UT’s enjoy special rights and status and they are ruled directly by the Central Government also known as the Union Government hence they are called Union territories. There are seven union territories in the country now. Andaman and Nicobar were the UTs at the time of adopting the Constitution. Delhi, Chandigarh and Lakshadweep were formed by separating them from former states. Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu and Puducherry are acquired territories which were made UTs. The President of India appoints an administrator or Lieutenant –governor for each UT. The UTs may be changed to states in the future for more efficient administrative control. 88

Andaman and Nicobar ? Did You Know The Andaman and Nicobar islands are an The Andaman Islands are Indian archipelago and union territory of the home to the only India situated in the Indian Ocean off the known Paleolithic people east coast of India. on the planet, the Sentinelese people; who have no contact with the outside world. State Animal: Sea Cow State Flower: State Bird: State Tree: Andaman Andaman Andaman Padauk Pyinma Wood Pigeon 89

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: With a total of 572 islands, a channel separates the Andaman and Nicobar islands from each other 150 km wide. This Union Territory of India, also has the only volcano in India that is located on Barren Island, a part of this Union Territory. WHAT DO THEY EAT? A variety of seafood delicacies are the staple diet for the people on the islands. Rice Sea Food PLACES TO SEE From Port Blair’s iconic Cellular Jail to gorgeous beaches and waters filled with coral reefs, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have many breathtaking sites Cellular Jail Havelock Island Radhanagar Beach 90

Neil Island Mt Harriet Saddle Peak ART Essentially islands, the Andaman and Nicobar islands reflect their geographical and cultural heritage through beautiful craft items made mainly from shells. Wood Art Shells Art Handicrafts from Basketry Work Coconut Shells 91

Chandigarh ? Chandigarh is not only a city and the capital Did You of Haryana and Punjab but also a Union Know Territory. Known as “The City beautiful”, Chandigarh was one of the first ‘planned’ Chandigarh derives its cities in post-independence India. name from the ancient Chandi Mandir that is devoted to Goddess Chandi and is located within the city in Panchkula District. State Animal: Indian Grey Mongoose State Flower: Dhak Flower State Bird: Indian State Tree: Blue Grey Hornbill Jacaranda 92

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: Located near the foothill of the Shivalik Mountain Range, Chandigarh lies on the northern plains and has fertile flat lands. WHAT DO THEY EAT? Chandigarh is known for its mouthwatering dishes and eats, which include chicken tikka, lassi, aloo paratha, amritsari kulcha, tandoori chicken, etc. Dal Makhani Naan Chicken Tikka Amritsari Kulcha PLACES TO SEE Chandigarh as a city has been beautifully planned. IN this well laid out township exists many pretty places as well as shopping areas and eateries. Sukhna Lake Parrot Bird Kasauli Sanctuary 93

Rose Garden Garden of Silence Rock Garden ART An architectural marvel and the best planned city in India, Chandigarh as a city in itself is a beautiful form of art that is a reflection of the systematic modern city that co-exists with nature. It is but natural that the city should be rightly called ‘The City Beautiful’. Wall Art Wall Painting Sculptures Crafts 94

Dadra & Nagar Haveli ? Did You Know Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a union territory Unlike most of India, located on the west coast of India. The union Dadra and Nagar territory is actually two places, Nagar Haveli Haveli was under the that lies between Maharashtra and Gujarat; rule of the Portuguese and Dadra that is surrounded by Gujarat. until they gained their Unlike other states and union territories, Dadra independence in and Nagar Haveli does not have any state 1954? animal, bird, tree or flower. Unlike other states and union territories, Dadra and Nagar Haveli does not have any state animal, bird, tree or flower. GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: The Union Territory is landlocked with the eastern part of the Union Territory lying on the foothills of the Western Ghats range, while the central area has rich fertile soil. The Union Territory has hot humid summers, followed by monsoons and then winters. 95

WHAT DO THEY EAT? The staple food in Dadra and Nagar Haveli is very strongly influenced by the food and culture of Gujarat. Hence their food too, like the Gujarati cuisine has a peculiar yet harmonious mix of sweet with salty food. One need only see the ‘Gujarati thali’ to understand the vast variety of vegetables, lentils, gravy, breads, chutneys, fried ‘farsan’ and pickles. Khakhra Moong Daal Muthia Sutarfeni Ghanthia Lilva Kachori Murukku ART The most popular forms of crafts in Dadra and Nagar Haveli are the unique leather slippers and mats and baskets weaved from bamboo. Basketry Leather Sleapers Mat Work 96

PLACES TO SEE Though small in size, Dadra and Nagar Haveli have many cultural places that are worth a visit. Vanganga Tribal Cultural Silvassa Vasona Gardens Museum Lion Safari Nagar Haveli Church of Our Swaminarayan Lady of Piety Temple, Silvassa Dudhni Lake Madhuban Dam Kauncha 97

Daman & Diu ? Daman and Diu is a coastal union territory Did You on the western coast of India. It is the second Know smallest union territory of India. Daman and Diu were a No state animal, bird, flower or tree has been Portuguese colony of designated for the union territory of Daman Goa until 1961? They and Diu. had been a part of Portuguese India for more than 450 years! GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE: Rivers to the north and south and the Arabian Sea to the east border the district of Daman. Whereas, the Arabian Sea on three sides and land in the north borders the district of Diu. ART Daman and Diu is most popular for its mat weaving craft. Other crafts and art found in the Union Territory include items made from tortoise shell and ivory carvings. 98

Paper Art Handmade Met Weaving Rich Fertile Crafts Soil WHAT DO THEY EAT? Daman and Diu has a wonderful mix of cuisines and foods of India, Africa, Europe and tribal cultures. This is because Daman and Diu was greatly influenced by these cultures over the last 4 centuries. Chicken Bullet Papyri Food Mix Food Fish Koliwada PLACES TO SEE This 18th-century temple is situated in northern region of Nani Daman Fort and is dedicated to Mahavir Swami. The temple is built with white marble and has beautiful carvings. Nani Daman Chakratirth Jain Temple Diu Museum Fort Beach Daman 99

Delhi ? Delhi is not only the country’s capital, but Did You also a union territory of India and is located Know in the northern part of India. It has a staggering population size, which makes it Delhi has been the second largest populated city in the constantly been country and the third largest city proper of inhabited since the 6th the world in population. Century BC. State Bird: House Sparrow State Animal: Nilgai State Flower: State Tree: Alfalfa Flamboyant 100