India, with its millennia-old history and burgeoning population surpassing 1.4 billion, is a tapestry of spiritualism and cultural richness. Every stroll through Mumbai, Jaipur, Agra, New Delhi, Kerala, or Varanasi unveils a new marvel.
From iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal to phenomena like ‘blood rain,’ floating lakes, and the vast expanse of over 2 million Hindu temples, India is a treasure trove of wonders. Despite the impossibility of seeing everything, a glimpse at India’s array of unusual, costly, and peculiar offerings is worth the time. So, let’s embark on a journey to explore some of the most intriguing spectacles that India proudly presents.
‘Star of India’: Worlds Most Expensive Rolls Royce
The ‘Star of India’ is a bespoke 1934 Rolls Royce Phantom II, commissioned for the Maharaja of Rajkot, Gujarat. This luxurious vehicle, with seating for seven, was a symbol of opulence and prestige. However, its ownership took a surprising turn when, thirty-four years after its creation, the Maharaja’s grandson made the decision to sell it, seemingly severing its ties with the family. Despite its departure from royal hands, the ‘Star of India’ continued to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Over the years, it changed hands several times, each new owner adding to its rich history. Yet, despite its journey through time, the allure of its storied past remained intact. Today, the ‘Star of India’ stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of craftsmanship and elegance embodied by Rolls Royce. Its journey from the palaces of Rajkot to the collections of automotive enthusiasts serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal of luxury and the enduring fascination with the golden age of motoring.
The ‘Mini Taj
architectural grandeur. Shortly after its construction, another opulent edifice, albeit smaller and less renowned, emerged 615 miles southwest of the original. Dubbed Bibi Ka Maqbara or the ‘Mini Taj,’ this structure mirrors the Taj Mahal’s elegance but on a smaller scale.
Despite its lesser stature, Bibi Ka Maqbara exudes its own charm and allure, attracting visitors with its architectural finesse and historical significance. While overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, the Mini Taj remains a noteworthy landmark, offering a glimpse into India’s rich architectural heritage and cultural legacy. Let`s have fun with the next picture!
Realistic Mannequins
One of the best ways to promote a product is to put it on display for all to see, and that’s exactly what retailers are doing when they dress mannequins in clothing and set them up in all of the store’s best vantage points. The problem is that very few customers are the same size as the dummy on display.
One hypothesis suggested a meteor burst, while Hindu belief attributed the red rain to the passing of the sinless. Yet, the Indian government offered a terrestrial explanation: airborne spores from local algae. This algae, found in Kerala, is known to release pigmented spores during the rainy season, coloring the rain red. While the scientific community continues to investigate, the phenomenon remains an intriguing blend of cultural folklore and scientific inquiry.
The Exotica
Nestled in the heart of northern India, Lucknow boasts not only intricately designed temples and mouthwatering street food but also the crown jewel of Indian desserts: Exotica. This culinary masterpiece is a dry mithai crafted from a harmonious blend of ingredients sourced from around the globe. From plump American blueberries to decadent Aussie and South African macadamia nuts, and the subtle sweetness of European hazelnuts, Exotica tantalizes the taste buds with its rich and diverse flavors.
This luxurious dessert embodies the essence of Lucknow’s cultural diversity and culinary innovation, offering a sensory journey that transcends borders and traditions. With each bite, Exotica transports the palate on a delightful adventure, showcasing the finest ingredients from distant lands while paying homage to the rich culinary heritage of India. Indeed, Exotica stands as a testament to Lucknow’s status as a culinary capital, where tradition and innovation converge to create unforgettable gastronomic experiences.
Camel Art
Camels have been essential to human survival for millennia, traversing unforgiving landscapes and serving as vital companions to travelers. In Bikaner, Rajasthan, locals pay homage to these “Ships of the Desert” through various cultural celebrations and events. These festivities not only honor the camels’ indispensable role in history but also celebrate their resilience and adaptability.
From camel races and beauty contests to traditional performances and exhibitions, these events showcase the enduring bond between humans and camels. Through these celebrations, Bikaner recognizes the invaluable contributions of these majestic creatures to the region’s heritage and culture. Moreover, they provide a platform for locals and visitors alike to appreciate the unique characteristics and significance of camels in Rajasthan’s history and society.
Bheem’ India’s Most Expensive Buffalo
Tipping the scales at a hefty 3,300 lbs and stretching 6 feet from hoof to head, Bheem, the Murrah breed buffalo, is the epitome of sheer size, earning him the moniker “Andre the Giant of Buffalos.” Yet, it’s not just his colossal stature that sets him apart; Bheem possesses an insatiable appetite to match.
Each day, this mammoth bull consumes a staggering 25 liters of milk, along with hefty portions of 2.2 pounds of clarified butter (ghee) and a blend of cashews and almonds. His voracious appetite and robust diet showcase his remarkable capacity for sustenance, cementing his status as a formidable force in the bovine world. Bheem’s extraordinary size and dietary demands not only highlight the exceptional capabilities of the Murrah breed but also underscore the importance of proper care and nutrition for these majestic creatures.
Land of Snakes
Nestled in the heart of rural India, the village of Shetpal stands as a testament to human-snake coexistence, a concept that might send shivers down the spine of someone like Indiana Jones, known for his aversion to serpents. However, the 2,600 inhabitants of Shetpal hold a unique perspective on these slithering creatures.
In Shetpal, snakes are not feared; they are revered. Here, it’s customary for each household to provide a resting place for cobras within their homes, often in the rafters or rafters of their ceilings. These serpentine guests are considered protectors, guarding the household from harm and bringing good fortune to its occupants.
2 Million Hindu Temples
India is renowned for its rich historical heritage, featuring a plethora of mosques, temples, and tombs that serve as iconic symbols of the nation’s cultural and religious diversity. With over two million Hindu temples and approximately 300,000 Muslim mosques scattered across the country, India boasts an unparalleled architectural legacy. Among these, the ancient city of Varanasi stands out with its remarkable collection of 23,000 Hindu temples lining the sacred riverbanks.
These temples not only serve as places of worship but also encapsulate centuries of artistic and architectural evolution, reflecting the spiritual fervor and cultural ethos of the Indian civilization. Similarly, the mosques in India showcase exquisite Islamic architecture, characterized by intricate designs, minarets, and domes, contributing to the country’s architectural splendor.
Stolen Brand Name Knock-off Stores
In India’s cutthroat retail landscape, competition knows no bounds. Entrepreneurs shamelessly capitalize on the fame of established brands to bolster their own ventures. Knock-off brand stores proliferate across the nation, offering products that bear little resemblance to their authentic counterparts. From clothing and accessories to electronics and household goods, these imitation items flood the market, enticing budget-conscious consumers with their deceptive allure.
Despite legal repercussions and ethical concerns, the proliferation of counterfeit products persists, fueled by the relentless pursuit of profit in the Indian retail sector. In this unscrupulous environment, consumers are often left navigating a maze of imitation goods, forced to exercise caution and discernment to distinguish between genuine articles and counterfeit replicas. As the battle against counterfeit continues, both consumers and legitimate businesses remain vigilant, striving to uphold integrity and authenticity in an increasingly competitive retail landscape.
Mustache For Pay
In Madhya Pradesh, a unique initiative reminiscent of ‘Movember’ has taken root, but with a twist. The state’s police chief has introduced a novel incentive for officers: growing a mustache. In a bold move, officers who embrace this traditional facial hair style are rewarded with a pay raise. This unconventional approach aims to foster camaraderie among police personnel and promote a sense of pride in their appearance. Additionally, it serves as a symbol of solidarity within the force, reinforcing the idea of strength and unity.
By encouraging officers to embrace their cultural heritage through the simple act of growing a mustache, the police chief hopes to boost morale and instill a sense of identity among the ranks. This initiative not only promotes a positive work environment but also highlights the significance of small gestures in enhancing employee satisfaction and loyalty. Ultimately, it reflects a creative approach to leadership that recognizes the importance of cultural traditions and camaraderie in fostering a cohesive and motivated workforce.
Gold Plated Dosa
For centuries, dosas have held a revered status in southern Indian cuisine, celebrated for their simplicity, affordability, and swift preparation. Their universal appeal spans across social strata, owing to their easy accessibility.
In Bangalore, a vibrant metropolis nestled in southern India, Raj Bhog restaurant has reimagined the traditional dosa, imbuing it with a dash of sophistication and creativity while staying true to its authentic essence. This culinary innovation has captivated the taste buds of locals and visitors alike, establishing Raj Bhog as a culinary gem in the bustling gastronomic landscape of Bangalore. Let’s have fun with the next picture.
Red Rain
Renowned for its picturesque beaches, azure seas, and unique black sands, the southwestern region of Kerala has captivated travelers for centuries. However, it’s the sporadic occurrence of red rains dating back to 1818 that has baffled scientists and locals alike. Dubbed “blood rain,” this phenomenon has spurred countless theories seeking to unravel its mysterious origins.
One hypothesis suggested a meteor burst, while Hindu belief attributed the red rain to the passing of the sinless. Yet, the Indian government offered a terrestrial explanation: airborne spores from local algae. This algae, found in Kerala, is known to release pigmented spores during the rainy season, coloring the rain red. While the scientific community continues to investigate, the phenomenon remains an intriguing blend of cultural folklore and scientific inquiry.
Onam Festival
Keralites eagerly anticipate the annual Onam Festival, celebrated at the onset of the Malayalam year during the month of Chingam. This vibrant festival commemorates the return of King Mahabali, a revered ruler in Kerala’s mythology, as well as the appearance of Vishnu in the avatar of Vamana. Lasting for ten days, the festival is a joyous occasion characterized by expressions of happiness and prosperity. Throughout the festivities, Malayalis showcase their rich cultural heritage through a plethora of colorful and traditional customs.
Homes are adorned with intricate floral arrangements known as pookalam, delicious feasts are prepared featuring a variety of traditional dishes, and vibrant cultural performances such as Kathakali dances and boat races take center stage. Onam is not only a time for revelry and merriment but also a period of unity and togetherness, as families and communities come together to celebrate this auspicious occasion with enthusiasm and reverence for their cultural heritage.
Nuisance Detectors
In several major cities across India, Nuisance Detectors have taken on the role of ticketing individuals for causing disturbances. These officers target specific nuisances that disrupt public peace, such as noise pollution, littering, and public urination.
Unlike the hall monitors in schools, these enforcers are tasked with maintaining order in public spaces, ensuring that citizens adhere to rules and regulations aimed at preserving the quality of life for all residents. While their presence may seem stringent, their efforts contribute to fostering a cleaner, more orderly urban environment, enhancing the overall well-being and satisfaction of city dwellers.
Extreme Electrical Lines
With increasing urbanization, cities experience a surge in population, necessitating the expansion of electric infrastructure. In India’s densely populated regions, such as major urban centers, the demand for electricity skyrockets, leading to a tangled web of power lines. The sheer volume of inhabitants exacerbates the complexity of the electrical grid, resulting in a labyrinth of cables and wires. This chaotic arrangement poses challenges for maintenance and efficiency, as well as safety concerns for residents and utility workers.
Despite efforts to modernize and upgrade the electrical infrastructure, the rapid urban growth outpaces the development of reliable power distribution systems. As a result, power outages, voltage fluctuations, and electrical hazards remain prevalent in many urban areas. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions and significant investment in infrastructure to ensure the reliable and sustainable delivery of electricity to India’s burgeoning urban population.
Gold and Diamond Contact Lens
Dr. Chawan, hailing from the Shekhar Eye Research Center in Mumbai, has redefined the concept of “beautiful eyes” through a groundbreaking innovation. His revolutionary approach involves the creation of contact lenses crafted from gold, adorned with several small diamonds encircling each eye. This unique design serves a dual purpose: not only does it enhance the aesthetic appeal of the wearer’s eyes, but it also prioritizes ocular health.
By strategically placing the gems, Dr. Chawan aims to minimize ocular irritation while ensuring an optimal flow of oxygen to the eyes. This innovative solution represents a fusion of luxury and functionality, offering individuals the opportunity to adorn their eyes with exquisite jewelry while simultaneously safeguarding their visual well-being. Dr. Chawan’s pioneering work underscores the intersection of medical science and aesthetic enhancement, ushering in a new era in the realm of ophthalmology where beauty and health converge seamlessly.
The Amritsar Golden Temple
The Sri Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Amritsar Golden Temple, stands as the paramount spiritual shrine in the Sikh religion, constructed atop a 67-square-feet marble platform in the mid-1500s. This revered site attracts pilgrims and visitors from around the world, drawn not only by its religious significance but also by its architectural grandeur and cultural allure. However, not all who journey to the Golden Temple do so for religious purposes.
Many tourists and travelers are captivated by its golden facade, intricate design, and serene surroundings, making it a popular destination for sightseeing and cultural exploration. Beyond its religious and historical importance, the Golden Temple serves as a symbol of unity, peace, and tolerance, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds and beliefs to experience its sanctity and splendor.
Animals on Public Transportation
Navigating public transportation is akin to playing a game of chance, where uncertainty looms at every turn. The journey commences with the uncertainty of whether there will be ample space to board the vehicle. If successful in boarding, the likelihood of securing a seat diminishes significantly. Those fortunate enough to find a vacant seat must then brace themselves for the next roll of the dice: the identity of their seatmate. Will it be a fellow commuter engrossed in their own world, a chatterbox eager for conversation, or someone with peculiar habits?
The outcome remains uncertain until the moment the neighboring seat is claimed. With each leg of the journey, passengers are thrust into this unpredictable game, navigating the whims of chance as they traverse the urban landscape. Public transportation thus becomes a microcosm of life’s uncertainties, where every ride presents a unique adventure shaped by the randomness of human interactions and the ever-changing dynamics of the commute.
Fish Swallowing Asthma “Cure”
The Goud family, hailing from Hyderabad, has devised what they assert to be a miraculous home remedy for asthma. Despite their bold claims of a 100% success rate when their “treatment” is strictly adhered to, they remain tight-lipped about its ingredients and refuse to subject it to medical testing. This clandestine approach has left doctors puzzled and skeptical.
While the family’s remedy may offer hope to asthma sufferers, the lack of transparency raises concerns about its safety and efficacy. Despite the secrecy surrounding their invention, the Goud family’s purported cure has garnered attention and curiosity, sparking debate within the medical community and prompting calls for further investigation and validation.
Gold Face Masks
During the summer of 2020, amidst a global struggle against an unseen adversary with vaccines still a distant hope, a resident of the western Indian city of Pune decided to take matters into his own hands regarding self-protection.
Entrepreneur Shankar Kurhade commissioned a skilled craftsman to create a Covid mask from two ounces of the most valuable metal available: gold. Shankar attests that the mask, despite its thinness, features incredibly small pores, ensuring easy breathing while wearing it in public. Let’s see the next spectacular post! It will be exciting! There can’t be such a thing, can there?
Bus Hammocks
India’s densely populated cities coupled with the scarcity of seating on public transportation paint a vivid picture of the daily commute. Train compartments often resemble sardine tins, with passengers squeezed shoulder to shoulder, leaving little room for movement. In contrast, the atmosphere on buses appears comparatively relaxed, earning them the reputation of being “a little more chilled out.” While buses may not be immune to overcrowding, the larger space allows for a more comfortable standing experience, affording commuters the liberty to shift positions and occasionally secure a seat during off-peak hours.
This laid-back ambiance fosters a sense of camaraderie among passengers as they navigate the bustling city streets together. Despite the hustle and bustle, the journey unfolds with a semblance of tranquility, offering a respite from the frenetic pace of urban life. Thus, while both modes of transport cater to the masses, buses offer a slightly more leisurely ride, providing commuters with a fleeting moment of reprieve amid the chaos of city living.
A Dog Temple
In 2010, in the southern central village of Channapatna, a temple was erected adjacent to the Goddess Kempamma’s temple, revered as the village’s primary deity. According to local lore, the Goddess appeared in a man’s dream, instructing him to construct the temple. This divine directive led to the construction of the new temple, serving as a testament to the spiritual significance of the Goddess Kempamma in the community.
The villagers, deeply devoted to their deity, embraced the new temple as a sacred site, honoring the mystical encounter that inspired its creation. The addition of this temple reflects the profound spiritual beliefs and traditions that continue to shape life in Channapatna, underscoring the enduring connection between the divine and the everyday lives of its residents.
Elephants on Small Boats
Elephants are ubiquitous in India, increasing the likelihood of potential accidents. Surprisingly, despite their prevalence, the number of elephant-related incidents is lower than anticipated. However, this isn’t due to safe practices but rather sheer luck.
The presence of elephants in various settings across India poses inherent risks, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures and awareness campaigns to prevent accidents involving these majestic creatures. Despite their revered status in Indian culture, elephants can pose significant dangers, underscoring the importance of responsible behavior and proper management of human-elephant interactions to ensure the well-being of both humans and animals.
The Jewellery Car of Gold
The Tata Nano, an Indian-manufactured car known for its affordability, holds the distinction of being the world’s cheapest vehicle. Despite its diminutive size, the Nano packs a punch in terms of value and practicality. However, in a surprising turn of events, Goldplus, in commemoration of five millennia of Indian jewelry craftsmanship, undertook a transformative endeavor. The company bestowed upon the Nano a lavish makeover, elevating it from its humble origins to a status symbol of opulence and luxury.
Through meticulous craftsmanship and intricate detailing, the once modest Nano underwent a stunning metamorphosis, emerging as one of the most expensive automobiles in existence. This bold reinterpretation of automotive design serves as a testament to India’s rich heritage of jewelry making and its ability to blend tradition with modernity. The adorned Nano stands as a beacon of extravagance, capturing the essence of Indian craftsmanship while redefining the boundaries of automotive luxury.
Highest Rail Bridge in the World
While India boasts millions of historical structures dating back hundreds or even thousands of years, its modern achievements often go unnoticed. One notable feat is the construction of the world’s highest railway bridge in the remote northern regions of the country. Spanning across the Chenab River in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, this engineering marvel stands tall at an astonishing height, surpassing all other railway bridges globally.
The bridge, known as the Chenab Bridge, is a testament to India’s advancements in infrastructure and engineering prowess. Its construction involved overcoming numerous challenges posed by the rugged terrain and adverse weather conditions, showcasing India’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and technology. As a crucial part of the Indian Railways network, the Chenab Bridge not only facilitates smoother connectivity but also serves as a symbol of national pride and achievement.
Monsoon Season
Northern Australians contend with cyclone season, while residents of the southeastern United States face hurricane season. In India, monsoonal rains bring their own challenges, notably, the vulnerability of many homes to annual flooding due to inadequate construction or location. This stark difference underscores the urgent need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness measures in vulnerable regions of India.
Despite its significance for agriculture and water resources, the monsoon also poses significant risks to communities, highlighting the importance of resilience-building efforts and sustainable urban development practices to mitigate the impact of seasonal weather patterns on vulnerable populations.
Holy Cows
In India, cows hold a sacred status ingrained deeply within the cultural and religious fabric of the nation. This reverence for the bovine species manifests itself in various ways, even in the day-to-day lives of ordinary citizens. Tuk Tuk drivers, ubiquitous fixtures of Indian streets, often find themselves pausing their journeys abruptly to tend to the needs of the cows they encounter along the way.
Despite the hustle and bustle of city life, these drivers exhibit a remarkable display of compassion and respect by purchasing flowers and food for the gentle creatures. These impromptu acts of kindness are not for personal gain but rather a solemn acknowledgment of the cows’ revered status in Hinduism. Through these gestures, Tuk Tuk drivers embody the ethos of empathy and reverence towards all living beings, symbolizing the harmonious coexistence between humans and animals that is deeply rooted in Indian culture.
