Uttar Pradesh

Area wise Uttar Pradesh is the fourth largest State of India. In sheer magnitude it is half of the area of France,

three times of Portugal, four times of Ireland, seven times of Switzerland, ten times of Belgium and a little

bigger than England.

Area- 2,40,928 sq. km.

Capital- Lucknow

ISD Code: The series starts with +915

Time Zone: 5:30 hours ahead of GMT

Population (2001 Census)- 16,60,52,859

Male- 8,74,66,301

Female- 7,85,86,558

Female literacy- 42.98 per cent

Districts- 72

Cities- 631

Nagar Nigams- 11

Members of Vidhan Sabha- 404

Members of Vidhan Parishad- 100

Lok Sabha members from Uttar Pradesh- 80

Rajya sabha members from Uttar Pradesh- 31

Members of Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly- 404

Members of Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council- 100

High Court Allahabad and Its Bench at Lucknow

Agriculture -

Staple crops Rabi and Kharif, pulses, sugarcane, vegetables, mango and guava.

Main Industries -

Cement, vegetable oils, textiles, cotton yarn, sugar, jute, Lock & Scissors, Carpet, Brassware, Glassware &

Bangles

Main Folklores -

Kajari, Chaiti, Alha, Puran Bhagat, Dhola Bhartrihari, Birha,Rasiya

Main Folk Dances -

Pandav, Karma, Charkula, Paidanda, Tharu, Dhobiya, Rai and Shera

Neighbouring states :

Uttar Pradesh has borders touching nine states. These are: Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi,

Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand & Bihar

History

The history of Uttar Pradesh is very much associated with the broad history of India. It dates back to 4000 years. Formerly the area of Uttar Pradesh was occupied by Aryans or the Dasas and their main occupation was agriculture. The Aryans through conquests occupied the adjoining areas. They laid the foundations of its civilisation in the region. During the Aryan inhabitation in the region that epics of Mahabharata, Ramayana, Brahmanas and Puranas were written. The state was the heart of Mahabharata war. The Kosala Kingdom of

Ayodhya is said to have been incarnated in the city of Mathura.

It was sometime around the middle of the 1st millennium BC that Uttar Pradesh saw the advent of Lord Buddha and the spread of Buddhism. Around the time Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at Dhamek Stupa in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh was under the Magadh rule. The Chaukhandi Stupa here marks the spot where Lord Buddha met his disciples. Besides Kuru, Panchalas, Vatsas, and Videhas etc. formed the early region of the state. These regions were known as Madhyadesa. During Ashoka`s role, several public welfare works was taken up. During the rule of Magadha Empire, Buddhism and Jainism developed into this region. It was a

period of administrative and economic advancement.

The power was subsequently shifted to the Nanda dynasty and then to the Mauryas. However the city reached its pinnacle of glory during the reign of Harshavardhana. The historical background of Uttar Pradesh has a lot to do with the advent of the Muslim rule. The period witnessed the subjugation of the Rajputs whose power was confined to the a few pockets of Rajasthan. Uttar Pradesh reached the peak of prosperity during the Mughal

rule, and particularly during the rule of Emperor Akbar. In due course of time, Uttar Pradesh witnessed the decadence of Mughal rule and the advent of the British. The

Mughal influence was restricted to the Doab region.

The British East India Company came into contact with the Awadh rulers during the reign of third Nawab of Awadh. There is no doubt that the history of Uttar Pradesh has run concurrently with the history of the country during and after the British rule, but it is also well-known that the contribution of the people of the state in the national freedom movement had been significant. Uttar Pradesh also played a key role in the 1857.From the rule of Rama to the rule of British, Uttar Pradesh has seen it all.

Geography

A fertile terrain of the Gangetic plain, the sprawling State spread over in 2,40,928 sq. km. area, touches the

Himalayan foothills to the north and the Vindhya ranges to the south, surrounded by the states of Uttarakhand,

Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and the country of Nepal.

It is here that one can dive down the stream of ancient Indian philosophy. It is the land which is glorified by the

stream of Indian spirituality i.e. the great Ganges & Yamuna and the footprints of legends like Ram-Krishna-

Buddha-Jain Tirthankars & Sufi Saints and the sites associated with them.

Climate

The climate of the state is tropical monsoon, but variations exist because of difference in altitudes.

The Tropical Monsoon climate is marked by three distinct seasons:

Summer (March–June): Hot & dry (temperatures rise to 45 °C, sometimes 47-48 °C); low relative humidity

(20%); dust laden winds.

Monsoon (June–September): 85% of average annual rainfall of 990 mm. Fall in temperature 40-45° on rainy

days.

Winter (October–February): Cold (temperatures drop to 3-4 °C, sometimes below -1 °C); clear skies; foggy

conditions in some tracts.

Flora and fauna

Forests constitute about 12.8% of the total geographical area of the state. The Himalayan region and the terai

and bhabhar area in the Gangetic plain have most of the forests. The Vindhyan forests consist mostly of

scrub. The districts of Jaunpur, Ghazipur and Ballia have no forest land, while 31 other district have less forest

area.

Forests

Near the snow line there are forests of rhododendrons and Betula utilis (Bhojpatra). Below them are forests of

silver fir, spruce, deodar, chir and oak. On the foothills and in the terai-bhabhar area grows the sal and

gigantic haldu. Along river courses the shisham grows in abundance. The Vindhyan forests have dhak, teak,

mahua, salai, chironji and tendu. The hill forests also have a large variety of medicinal herbs. Sal, Chir,

Deodar and sain yield building timber and railway sleepers. Chir also yield resin, the chief source of resin and

turpentine. Sisso is mostly used for furniture while Khair yields Kattha, which is taken with betel leaves or Pan.

Semal and gutel are used as matchwood and Kanju in the plywood industry. Babul provides the principal

tanning material of the state. Some of the grasses such as baib and bamboo are raw material for the paper

industry. Tendu leaves are used in making bidis (Indian cigarettes), and cane is used in baskets and furniture.

Species of grasses have been collected from the Gangetic plain. Herbs include medicinal plants like Rauwolfia

serpentina, Viala serpens, podophyllum, hexandrum and Ephecra gerardiana.

Fauna

Corresponding to its variegated topography and climate, the state has a wealth of animal life. Its avifauna is

among the richest in the country. Animals that can be found in the jungles of Uttar Pradesh include Tigers,

Leopards, wild Bears, sloth Bears, Chital, Sambhars, Jackals, Porcupines, jungle cats, Hares, squirrels,

monitor lizards, and foxes. These can be seen in all but the highest mountain ranges. The most common birds

include the crow, pigeon, dove, jungle fowl, black partridge, house sparrow, peafowl, blue jay, parakeet, kite,

mynah, quail, bulbul, kingfisher and woodpecker.

Certain species are found in special habitats. The elephant is confined to the terai and the foothills. The

chinkara and the sandgrouse prefer a dry climate, and are native to the Vindhyan forests. The musk deer and

the brown bear is found in the higher Himalayas. Among the game birds resident in the state are the snipe,

comb duck, grey duck, cotton teal and whistling teal.

There are several parks and sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh that are home to a variety of species that are extinct

in other parts of North India, such as the endangered Bengal Florican and the successfully reintroduced one-

horned Rhinoceros. The splendid and vast hinterlands of this state are alive with exceptionally diverse wildlife

just waiting to be discovered. So rich is the population of the avifauna here that the birds not only cluster

around lakes but also agricultural fields in various parts of the state.

The State has Dudhwa National Park and Series of bird & wildlife sanctuaries which have a wide variety of

exotic birds that flock to the lakes, including the black-necked Stork, the stunning Sarus crane, several vulture

species and more.

Languages spoken: Hindi, Urdu, Awadhi, Braj, Bhojpuri and English

Uttar Pradesh is a microcosm of the entire Indian nation in its diversity. Multi ethnic, multi religious and multi

cultural, Uttar Pradesh has absorbed many an immigrant culture and race within its borders and created a

unique cultural heritage found nowhere else in the country. Its people belong to many religions and come from

distant parts of the country but have had the latitude to recreate their own native cultures. Afghans, Kashmiris,

Bengalis, Parsis and Punjabi immigrants settled here. Christians, Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists all found the

freedom to practise their religions and pass it on to successive generations.

One of the least developed states in the country; it has some highly industrialised pockets. While it is secular,

liberal and progressive, at the same time it is deeply rooted in social and religious traditions and taboos. While

its diversity is its strength, it is often equally divisive although rarely parochial. Inherently secular in character,

it is also the place where religious buildings are torn down by rampaging fundamentalists.

Religion

The majority of the people are Hindus while a large percentage of the minority practice Islam. There are also a

fair number of Christians in Uttar Pradesh.

Food

The cuisine of Uttar Pradesh is just as diverse as its geography. Ranging from simple every day fare to rich,

elaborate banquets, the cuisine of Uttar Pradesh has absorbed and adapted a variety of cuisines to create an

entire feast of wonderful dishes. Many of the Hindu communities are staunch vegetarians and they have

created a vast variety of vegetarian dishes ranging from the all time favourite ‘puri-aloo’ or potatoes and fried

wheat bread to savouries and divine desserts and sweetmeats. The Muslims, Kashmiris, Kayasthas and

Christian communities cook up a storm of non-vegetarian dishes including a delectable selection of breads,

kababs, curries and biryanis. The Muslim cuisine, of northern Uttar Pradesh is very different from the Mughlai

food of Delhi. The Nawabs of Oudh were great gourmets and encouraged their master chefs to create new

styles of cooking like the famous ‘Dum Pukht’ of Lucknow where the food is sealed in large pots called

‘Handis’, placed over a slow fire and left to cook in its own juices. When opened, these dishes release the

most fragrant and delicious aromas. Lucknow and its neighbouring towns were put on the culinary map of

India thanks to these rich curries, melt in the mouth kababs, fragrant rice biryanis and pulaos and an eclectic

variety of leavened and unleavened breads.

Culture

Uttar Pradesh has been the cultural seat of the country for a very long time. The history of Uttar Pradesh is

fascinating, and it has shaped a rich cultural heritage of the state that has emerged as the focal point of the

Indian culture. The Mauryans, the Mughals, the British, etc. all brought with them their own cultural traits.

A cultured, genteel lifestyle was the essence of the rule of the Muslim Nawabs of Awadh. Music, dance,

literature, poetry, arts and crafts flourished under royal patronage. Women were encouraged to learn the fine

arts and to read and write, albeit within the ‘purdah’. Litterateurs, painters, dancers and musicians created

masterpieces in their respective genres.

Writers like Munshi Premchand, Mahadevi Verma, Srikant Verma, poets like Suryakant Tripathi ‘Nirala’,

Harivanshrai Bacchan, Sumitra Nandan Pant, Mahavir Prasad Dwiwedi, and Upendranath ‘Ashk’; artistes of

the stature of the shehnai maestro Ustad Bismillah Khan, Kathak wizard Birju Maharaj, tabla maestro Kishan

Maharaj, the legendary Baba Allaudin Khan and his disciples Pt. Ravi Shankar and Ustad Vilayat Khan;

ghazal singers Begum Akhtar, Rasoolan Bai, Girija Devi and many more have lived and practised their art and

craft here.

Uttar Pradesh is the place where one of the six foremost classical dances of India, the Kathak, flourished. The

word Katha, from which the name is derived, means story. It originated in northern India, during the 7th

century A.D. Kathak has very intricate and complex movements of hands and feet along with facial

expressions. The footwork is accompanied by the music of various percussion instruments such as tabla and

pakhwaj, which are native to north India.

Folk arts of Uttar Pradesh include these theatrical forms-

Braj Raslila, which is associated with the life of the lover-God, Lord Krishna

Ramlila is another such art form dealing with the life of Lord Rama

Charukala is another folk dance of the state. The dance of Charkula involves a female dancer balancing a

column of lighted deepikas over her head while dancing.

Rasiya describes the love of Radha and Shri Krishna. Charkula and Rasiya are native arts of the Braj region

of the state.

Crafts

One of the important crafts of Uttar Pradesh is Chikankari, which entails delicate and traditional hand

embroidery. This form of handicrafts is mainly practiced in Lucknow. It is done on fabrics like chiffon, doruya,

muslin, organza, organdie and silk. Chikan saris and Kurtas make the perfect summer wear.

Zardoji embroidery is another unique art where the embroidery is done in three dimensions. Zari works of

Benaras are famous the world over.

Pottery and exquisite metal ware products are also created on a large scale in Uttar Pradesh.

Carpet weaving is also an important cultural expression of Uttar Pradesh. The state caters to 90 percent of

the country's carpets and the carpet weaving centers in the state are primarily located around Mirzapur,

Khamaria and Bhadohi.

Metal Ware

Brassware Uttar Pradesh is the largest Brass and Copper producing state in India. In domestic-ware each of

the 'lotas' (small water-pots) is known by the name of its origin, like Etawah, Banaras, Sitapur, etc. The ritual

articles are largely in copper. Moradabad in U P is famous for art metalwork and known for it's coloured

enamelling and intricate engravings.

Pottery

Glazed pottery with white background and blue and green patterns is developed in Khurja, Chunar and

Rampur in Uttar Pradesh. UP produces some of the finest Chunar black clay pottery. This is inlaid with silver

paint in intricate designs. The art that is perfected in Nizamabad, has high gloss and lustre derived from a

powder called kabiz made from the mud of rice fields. Khurja is also well known for its cheap and tough

tableware.

Terracotta

Gorakhpur has villages where clay figures of animals are done and is is famous for its ornately decorated

terracotta horse. The potter creates the basic form by throwing separate pieces on the wheel and then joining

them.

Jewellery

Lucknow is well known for its jewellery and enamelling work. Exquisite silverware's with patterns of hunting

scenes, snakes and roses are very popular. The Bidri and Zarbuland silver works of Lucknow find expression

on excellent pieces of huqqa farshi, jewel boxes, trays, bowls, cufflinks, cigarette holders, etc. Renowned ivory

and bone carvings with motifs of flowers, leaves, creepers, trees, birds and animals are widely produced in

Lucknow. The master craftsmen create intricate items like knives, lampshades, shirt pins and small toys.

Perfume

'Attars' or perfumes are also produced in Lucknow from the 19th century. The Lucknow perfumers

experimented and succeeded in making attar with delicate and lasting fragrances those are made from

various aromatic herbs, spices, sandal oil, musk, essence of flowers, and leaves. The famous Lucknow

fragrances are khus, keora, chameli, zafran and agar.

Painting

The tradition of painting in Uttar Pradesh goes back to pre-historic times. The cave paintings of Sonbhadra

and Chitrakoot depict scenes of hunting, war, festivals, dances, romantic life and animals. The golden period

of Painting in UP was the Mughal Era. The art of painting attained its peak during the reign of Jahangir. The

Mughal style of painting remains one of the greatest achievements of Asian culture and is unique in its

concept, presentation and style.

The art of painting reached the epitome of perfection in the area of Bundelkhand when the King of Orchha

reconstructed the temple of Keshav Dev in Mathura. The paintings of Mathura, Gokul, Vrindavan and

Govardhan depict scenes from the life of Lord Krishna.

Another major pre-modern painting tradition of UP is known as the Garhwal School which was patronized by

the Kings of Garhwal.

Music

Uttar Pradesh was the land of the great sages and hermits and the singing of ancient hymns and mantras laid

the basic tradition of music, which has blossomed into a musical tradition. The medieval age saw the

emergence of two distinct strands of music. One was the court music that found patronage in the Courts like

Agra, Fatehpur-Sikri, Lucknow, Jaunpur, Varanasi, Ayodhya, Banda and Datiya. The second was the religious

tradition emerging from the Bhakti Cult rooted and flowered in centres like Mathura, Vrindavan and Ayodhya.

Rulers and musicians from Uttar Pradesh contributed to the prosperity of Hindustani music.

Cultural heritage

Some scholars are of the view that the Rig Veda was composed in the Gangetic valley. But even if this be not

true, it is generally accepted that a substantial portion of the Vedic literature had its origin here in its many

hermitages, which were seats of learning. Some of the big names in Hindu sacred literature, such as

Yajnavalkya, Vashishtha, Vishwamitra, Valmiki, Attriyea, Bharadwaja, Kapil and Vyas lived in these sylvan

retreats of Uttar Pradesh and inspired millions through the ages. Uttar Pradesh's greatest gifts to humanity are

the two epics, 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata'. From the epic age, the territory of Uttar Pradesh being watered

by several fresh streams of culture, the two most significant being those generated by the teachings of the

Buddha and Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthankar.

Brahmanical culture eclipsed by the more virile and vigorous Buddhism. Culture in all its manifestations served

the ends of religion. The fountainheads of Brahmanical culture were centered at holy places as Kashi,

Ayodhya, Prayag, Mathura and the Himalayan hermitages. Mathura has proved to be a veritable store-house

of buried ancient art, both of the Brahmanical and Buddhist varieties and Kashi, which has withstood the

ravages of times, of living Hindu art.

Festivals

The important Hindu festivals of Uttar Pradesh are Navaratri, Diwali, Shivaratri, Raksha Bandhan and

Janmashtami

Karva Chauth: This festival of fasting and feasting falls on nine days after Dussehra, on the fourth day of the

Karva Chauthdark fortnight of Kartika. Karva Chauth is held by married Hindu woman for the safety and

prosperity of their husbands.

Annakoot is celebrated which is devoted to feasting and Govardhan Puja in the evening and rounded up next

day by Bhaiya Dooj when sisters apply vermilion tika (auspicious mark) on the forehead of their brothers who

reward them with money.

Shitla Ashtami, which falls on eighth day after Holi, is devoted to the goddess of small-pox, followed by Ram

Navami on Chaitra Sudi Navami, commemorating the birth of Lord Rama; Baisakhi Purnima, a big bathing

day; Bargadee Amavasya in Jaistha Dussehra, another great bathing day; Guru Purnima in Asadh when Vyas

Puja is held and Nag Panchami dedicated to the worship of the Snake God, Shesha.

Janmashtami is the most important Hindu festival celebrating the birthday of Lord Krishna. This festival is

followed by Hartalika Teej, Ganesh Chaturthi, Anant Chaturdashi, and Pitra Visarjan Amavasya devoted to

making of oblations to the Pitras (dead ancestors) and is called Pitra Paksha. Bharat Milap which is celebrated

during the month of October or November is performed at Nati Imli on the day following Vijayadashmi

(Dusshera). It pertains to the episode of the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, and his

reunion with his brother Bharat.

Muslim Festivals

The most solemn and colourful Muslim function held in the state is Muharram, commemorating the martyrdom

of Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Holi Prophet. In all cities and towns Muslims take out impressive

processions of colourfully decorated tazias, replicas of the martyr's tomb at Karbala. The most solemn and

impressive Muharram is observed in Lucknow, where gold and silver replicas of old Nawabi times are brought

out and men beat their breasts in mourning constantly until blood oozes out. The two Imambaras and Shah

Najaf are beautifully illuminated for two days. An impressive event is a fire-walking feat held in one of the

Imambaras. After the burial of the tazias on the tenth day, a gathering of mourners in utter darkness is held,

known as Majlis Sham-i-Ghariban, one of the most soul-stirring events among Muharram observances. The

other occasions of religious importance for Muslims are Id-Ul-Fitr, Ramzan (a month devoted to fasting),

Chehlum, Bara Wafat, Shah-i-Barat and Id-Uz-Zuha.

Administration

Uttar Pradesh has a bicameral legislature and a Governor. The lower house is called Vidhan Sabha and the

Upper House is called as Vidhan Parishad. The state has also a High Comurt. The state government`s

Department of Planning is responsible for making developmental plan for the state. The state has the

presence of a large number of village councils that are known as Panchayats. One of the most developed

Panchayats is Shahabad in Maharajganj District of Uttar Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh is the most populous country

in India consisting of 175 million inhabitants. It is also the most populous country subdivision in the world.

There are 71 districts in Uttar Pradesh and they are grouped into 17 divisions. They are Agra, Azamgarh,

Allahabad, Bijnor, Kanpur, Ghaziabad, Gorakhpur, Chitrakoot, Devipatan, Faizabad District, Bahraich District,

Bareilly District, Basti District, Mirzapur District, Moradabad District, Meerut, Lucknow, Varanasi, Sultanpur,

Farrukhabad and Saharanpur. The largest district in terms of area is Lakhimpur Kheri District. There are 403

constituencies in Uttar Pradesh.

Economy

In Uttar Pradesh, there is the presence of different types of minerals. Several industries have come up in the

region based on the presence of different types of minerals present in the region. The industries are engaged

in the manufacturing of scales, letter boxes, furniture, locks, leather goods, scissor, badges and belts,

handloom, carpet, glass, electrical goods etc. In the western regions of Uttar Pradesh, majority of the people

depends on agriculture and other allied activities. Wheat, pulses, oilseeds, rice, sugarcane, and potatoes are

the main crops grown here. Sugarcane is an important cash crop grown here. Apples and mangoes are also

produced in this state. Uttar Pradesh has several general universities and other institutions. Some of the

famous universities are Bundelkhand University, Lucknow University, Allahabad University, Banaras Hindu

University, Aligarh Muslim University, Kanpur University, Agra University, M. J. P. Rohilkhand University,

Chaudhary Charan Singh University, V.B.S. Purvanchal University, Uttar Pradesh Technical University, NIT at

Gorakhpur and Allahabad, Harcourt Butler Institute of Technology (HBTI) at Kanpur, the prestigious Indian

Institute of Technology at Kanpur, Indian Institute of Management Lucknow, Dayalbagh Educational Institute

and Indian Institute of Information Technology.

In order to prepare schemes relating to the development of tourism and to execute them, the Directorate of

Tourism was established in the year 1972 of which the Director General is an I.A.S. officer. In 1974 the Uttar

Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation was established to look after the commercial activities which

are a part of development of tourism. Its Managing Director is also an I.A.S. Officer. In addition the Food Craft

Institute, Aligarh, which was under the control of Government of India, and later transferred to the Department

of Tourism on 1-7-1985, providing training of subjects relating to tourism. In order to give training to students

regarding the tourism and travel trade, a Tourism Management Institute has also been established in Lucknow

Which in the name of MKITM.

The Tourism Development Policy has been framed in Uttar Pradesh under which Tourist circuits are being

developed in the following manner :-

1. Buddhist Circuit

2. Bundelkhand Circuit

3. Braj (Agra-Mathura)Circuit

4. Awadh Circuit

5. Vindhya- Varanasi Circuit

6. Wild Life -Eco tourism Circuit

7. The multitudinous vigour of the people of Uttar Pradesh is reflected in the colorful vibrancy of their fairs

and festivals. Whether it is the village, still steeped in tradition, or the town, tentatively modern, an

awareness of one's roots is deeply ingrained in each and is outwardly manifested through festivities

the year round.

Fairs and festivals are celebrated with traditional gaiety and fervor to invoke divine blessings as well as

for the sheer joy of living. A celebration of life at its best.

8.

Holi Janmashtami Ramlila

Ramnavmi Mela, Ayodhya Kumbh Mela, MahaKumbh Kampil Fair, Kampil

Deva Mela, Barabanki Bateshwar Fair, AgraKartik Poornima and Lolark Shasthi

Varanasi

Kailash Fair, Agra Rambarat, Agra Magh Mela, Allahabad

Festivals Organised By U.P Tourism

Department

Traditional Festival Of U.P- The

Land of Taj

9.

Forthcoming Festivals

S.No. Name Place

1. Ayurveda-Janshi Mahotsava Jhansi

2. Ganga Mahotsava Varanasi

3. Lucknow Mahotsava Lucknow

4. Buddha Mahotsava Sarnath/ Kushinagar

5. One Day Buddha Mahotsava Sravasti

6. Water Sports Festival Allahabad - Varanasi

7. Taj Mahotsava Agra

Kundan Kaliya

Kaliya is a mutton preparation with gravy along with the compulsory inclusion of turmeric or saffron. It is a

preparation commonly served at lunch or dinner or both. To create novelty in this popular dish some variations have

been devised by the cooks of Awadh, for instance Mahi Kaliya, Chandi Kaliya and the unbeatable Kundan Kaliya.

The latter is a delicacy designed by the bawarchis and rakabdars to please their Nawabs. The use of gold leaf in this

dish lends a touch of luxury to it. The carefully carved mutton pieces wrapped in gold leaf, placed on a bed of rich

gravy shimmering with gold amalgamated in it, is a stimulant for jaded appetites.

Shami Kabab

A formal spread in any Nawabi banquet of a nawab in Awadh was considered incomplete without the inclusion of the

Shami Kabab, an important constituent of the "Tora" (presentation of food). It would be no exaggeration to say that it

was the `National' kabab of Awadh. Made from mince meat, the kababs are round patties filled with spicy surprises

and the tangy `kairi' or raw green mango. So ideally the best time of the year to have these kababs is around the

month of May when the fruit of the mango tree is in its infancy. In other seasons the kairi can be substituted with

`kamrakh' or `karonda' both having a tart flavour reminiscent of the raw mango. If none of these are available then

one can make do with the juice of lime squeezed into the mince paste. The texture of the kabab is extremely soft

and simply melts in the mouth.

Kakori Kabab

The Seekh has long been considered a piece de resistance in the Awadhi dastarkhwan. The beautifully executed

kabab is what every Lucknowi is proud of. The seekh kabab, introduced in this region by the Mughals, was originally

prepared from beef mince on skewers and cooked on charcoal fire. But later influences and innovations led to the

use of lamb mince which was preferred for its soft texture. Besides, serving it on the dastarkhwan did not offend the

sensibilities of the Hindu guests. The immense popularity of this kabab led to further refinements and improvements

and one bawarchi from Kakori found much acclaim for his efforts in this direction. Kakori is a small hamlet on the

outskirts of Lucknow, in the Lucknow-Malihabad mango belt. During the freedom struggle, it become well-known for

the famous `Kakori Case' when a band of freedom fighters looted the train carrying the British Treasury money at

this obscure place. In the same period of British rule, it was also customary in this region for the rich Rajas and

Nawabs to entertain senior British officers and ply them with the best hospitality they could offer. And if it was the

mango season, a `mango dinner' was very much in order (dinner in a mango orchard, was followed by a variety of

chilled mangoes served in great style). At one such party in Kakori, stung by the remark of a British officer regarding

the coarse texture of Seekh Kabab, the host, the late Nawab Syed Mohammad Haider Kazmi summoned his

rakabdars, hakims and attars the very next day and asked them to evolve a more refined variety of the Seekh

Kabab. Ten days of incessant research and design efforts resulted in the now famous `Kakori Kababs' which were

as far as perfection could go. The mince for the kabab was to be obtained from no other part but the `Raan ki

Machhli' (tendon of the leg of mutton) and rawaz or animal fat was replaced by khoya, black pepper by white pepper

and a brand new mix of powdered spices which still remains a closely guarded secret added to the perfect blend.

And of course, the Nawab invited the same officer again and presented the new version of the Seekh Kabab and

needless to say it met with great applause. Since then the Seekh Kababs of Kakori became famous by word of

mouth and even today, though cooked elsewhere, are known as `Kakori Kababs'.

Note: Kokori Kababs are grilled on a specially designed barbecue, on slow charcoal fire.

Gulnaar Kababs

The Gulnaar Kabab is a gourmet's delight. The blending of tomatoes with spices and chicken, with a garnish of red

rose petals is one of the most aesthetic dishes of the bawarchis of Awadh.

Nehari Khaas

The richness of Awadh Cuisine is not only in terms of the ingredients used but also the variety in cuisine. If some

dishes taste good owing to the rich flavour of pure ghee and cream, some are incomparable though they may be

cooked in the humble mustard oil. Mustard oil is a common cooking medium in north India. The mustard plant grown

extensively in these parts is harvested in February and March. In Awadh, even the mustard oil, extracted from the

best quality of mustard seeds, is heated in large cauldrons till it smokes. Then it is passed through muslin cloth to

remove any impurities. This oil is then collected and sealed in large earthenware pots or urns and buried in the

earth, preferably under the shade of a tree or a cool place. It is left to mature for a period of 9 to 10 months, i.e.

through the rainy season so that the oil is further cooled when the rain water seeps into the ground. Then it is dug up

and is ready for use. The long period of underground storage transforms the oil to a granular texture which is used

for cooking purposes. It has a mild flavor unlike the pungent unseasoned mustard oil, and is also less hot. Mustard

oil is used in the cooking of curries and even dry vegetables. The Nehari is invariably cooked in mustard oil and is a

hot favorite of all the princes and paupers, the high and low, the rich and poor. The word `Nehari' is derived from

`Nehar' or fasting and is a popular breakfast item with the Muslim populace. It is generally had after the first namaz

of the day. Nehari originally, is beef, braised and then stewed overnight, further prepared in the morning and eaten

with kulchas. The recipe for the Nehari, interestingly, is also derived from a Hakimi Nuskha and it is especially suited

to the body constitution in the winter months as it keeps the body warm. For the plebian it is still common practice to

start the day with nehari kulcha as it is a sumptuous meal and can sustain one till dusk. Now many Muslim families

use mutton instead of beef for Nehari but the street ships of old Lucknow still serve Nehari prepared from beef. In

the old city of Lucknow, strategically located opposite a mosque near Akbari Gate is the famous eatery of Rahim

which has been dishing out the best Nehari for the past five generations. Haji Zubair presently in charge of the family

business gets the masala powder prepared in bulk under personal supervision, using the family secret of

generations, in which he claims, are incorporated 23 herbs and spices. Even now a soup plate full of Nehari and

Kulcha can be had for Rs. 7.50, equivalent to about 500 quality calories of tonic food!

The recipe for Nehari given here is from the house of Rahim adapted to mutton, in keeping with popular taste in this

region.

Prescription of the `Hakims' or practitioners of Unani medicine.

Nargisi Kofta

A very interesting aspect of Awadh cuisine is the inspiration it draws from a myriad sources - seasons and

celebrations, flora and fauna, personalities, poetry and colour. In Urdu poetry one finds frequent references to the

"Narcissus-like eyes" (Nargisi aankhen) of the beloved. And sure enough, the bawarchis of Awadh designed the

Nargis Kofta, extending the simile to the dastarkhwan! The choice of egg for this dish was most appropriate. The

Nargisi Kofta is essentially a hard boiled egg, wrapped in mince and deep fried, when halved lengthwise it

resembles the eye! Purists go to the length of selecting eggs which are more slim than round to get the perfect

shape!

Patili Kabab

Awadh is home to a vast variety of kababs. They differ in shape and size, the kind of meat used in the method of

cooking involved. Contrary to the general notion that kababs are either barbecued or griddle fried, in this region,

even the patili or deep copper or brass vessel is used for making kababs. This particular kabab is prepared

especially well by Begum of Kurki who still maintains high standards of gastronomy. We were fortunate enough to

partake of her hospitality and were plied with a variety of dishes which are now, more or less, extinct in this region.

This kabab is served as one whole mass on the plate and no in several individual pieces. The cooking of mince on

slow fire with ghee and spices infuses the meat with a subtle aroma, and the superbly soft texture of the kabab

makes partaking of it a pleasurable experience!

Pasanda Kababs

The raan or mutton offers numerous possibilities for the daskarkhwan. The Pasanda Kabab is one such mouth

watering preparation. The pasanda is a two inch square boneless cut flattened out by beating with the blunt side of

knife. It can either be skewered or cooked in a vessel. The latter method is more common in Lucknow.

Shab Deg

Over two hundred years ago, in the early 18th century, Kashmiri families came down the mountain valley to seek

fame and fortune in the rich plans below. Those were the days of the decline of the Mughal Empire, and it was not

surprising that the glory of Awadh pulled them towards Lucknow. A number of Kashmiris came to settle in the capital

of Awadh. They brought with them the scent of saffron, the cups of kahwa and their celestial cuisine. Truly, the

cooking of "Shab Deg" in winter, for the Nawab in Awadh, became not only a celebration of winter, but a reminder of

the bond with that land which is oft referred to as heaven on earth:

"Agar firdaus bar ru-yi-zamin ast,

Hamin ast, u hamin ast, u hamin ast."

If on earth be an Eden of bliss,

It is this, it is this, none but this.

Even to this day, the fondness for the Kashmiri cuisine has not waned. Ask any old native of Awadh Shah Deg and

you will see his eyes brim with nostalgia, and he laments the dying of the art of cooking this sublime dish. "Shab

Deg" is a beautiful blend of whole turnips, Kashmiri ver, mutton balls and spices cooked in a `deg' through the night

or "shub". The treatment of turnips with saffron, the special Kashmiri vers brought all the way from Kashmir with the

distinctive aroma of saffron and Kashmiri onions, and the koftas, cooked on the slow fire in a sealed deg till the

break of dawn, lend this dish its distinguished status. The culinary skill of a cook in preparing this dish lies in the

deftness with which all the koftas (mutton balls) and turnips are made to look like one another and that they are

cooked to the perfect texture. Apart from the carefully crafted ingredients, pieces of mutton or game birds are also

cooked in the gravy.

Note : Kashmiri ver is a doughnut-shaped cake of ground spices with a strong and pungent aroma. Ask any

Kashmiri woman for the recipe and she turns evasively coy; "Well, you see, I don't actually make it myself," she says

cagily. "My mother-in-law sends just a little at a time". Ver comes in the form of a thin, hard cake with a hole in its

center. It can contain garlic and `praan' (Kashmir onion a strange cross between a spring onion or scallion and a

shallot) for Muslims, asafetida and fenugreek for Hindus as well as lots of freshly ground red chilies, cumin,

coriander, dried ginger, cloves, cardamom and turmeric. All these spices are ground, then made into a patty and is

left to dry on wooden plants in the shade. Here it is turned over expertly many times until it is quite hard, after which

it is strung and kept for the rest of the year. Small amounts are broken off as needed, crumbled and then sprinkled

over many foods to give them a recognizably Kashmiri flavor. Sealed deg can be put in a very slow oven

alternatively for 4-6 hours.

Zamin Doz

An old recipe for cooking fish is the `Zamin Doz Machhli' wherein a whole fish is stuffed with spices, sealed in an

earthenware case, buried in the ground and cooked by placing cow dung cake fire on the ground above. Though it

takes 6-8 hours to cook, it is worth the wait! In the days of yore, special earthenware cases were made to order by

the kumhars (potters) according to the size and shape of the fish to be cooked. The case would fit the fish like a

glove and moisture would be absorbed by it. The final product would have an extraordinary earthy flavour. As such

luxuries are rare these days we thought of substituting the fish-shaped case with the easily available roti-dish or the

flat curd dish.

Lucknowi Biryani

Though the formal menu of Awadh did not have any place for the Biryani as mentioned earlier, it was and still is

popular for the informal meals. The method of cooking the Biryani is the `Dum Pukht' method which imparts a typical

Awadh flavour to this rice preparation. Biryani literally means fried or `bhuna', and in this preparation, the rice is

lightly fried before being cooked in the mutton stock. Hence the name, differentiating it from the pulao where the rice

is parboiled.

Note : It can be cooked in a microwave or an oven by placing the partly cooked ingredients in a casserole and

cooking at a slow temperature.

Zarda

Spring is the season of rejuvenation, of exultation and festivity. In India its celebration in the various regions has its

own joyous flavour. In north India, more specifically, in Awadh `vasant' as it known, has a tradition of being

celebrated with music and dance and of course to go along with the festivities. The wide expanse of the mustard

fields-in garb of yellow are a treat for the eyes. In the days of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, who was a connoisseur of the

fine arts, celebrations were done in style. A long procession of `Bajras' (barges) were taken out on the river Gomti.

Dressed in yellow, to match the (color of nature) spring palette, men and women danced to the tune of Raga Vasant,

and Raga Hindola. The river would be transformed to a rich yellow hue more aptly labeled as `Basanti'. The `Zarda'

is a celebration of spring though its popularity transcends the seasons, even cooked during marriages or auspicious

occasions, this sweet rice preparation is like a spring song!

Roomali Roti

The `Roomali Roti' is suggestive of the scarf or handkerchief like appearance of this bread. Shaped without rolling

on a board and cooked on a convex iron griddle, this bread is very special to Awadh. The fine texture of the bread

makes it an excellent accompaniment for delicate kebabs and kormas.

Sheermal

The `Sheermal', invented in Lucknow by an ace bread-maker by the name of Muhammadan, is a rich bread

consisting mainly of flour, milk, fat and saffron. Though traditionally cooked in an iron tandoor, it can be cooked in a

mahi tawa also by covering with a lid and applying heat from the top and bottom.

Kulcha

The Kulcha is a favorite accompaniment to the Nehari. The soft texture of this bread is good with curries.

Murg Mussallam

Spring is the season of rejuvenation, of exultation and festivity. In India its celebration in the various regions has its

own joyous flavour. In north India, more specifically, in Awadh Basant' as it known, has a tradition of being

celebrated with music and dance and of course to go along with the festivities. The wide expanse of the mustard

fields-in garb of yellow are a treat for the eyes. In the days of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, who was a connoisseur of the

fine arts, celebrations were done in style. A long procession of `Bajras' (barges) were taken out on the river Gomti.

Dressed in yellow, to match the (color of nature) spring palette, men and women danced to the tune of Raga Basant,

and Raga Hindola. The river would be transformed to a rich yellow hue more aptly labeled as `Basanti'. The `Zarda'

is a celebration of spring though its popularity transcends the seasons, even cooked during marriages or auspicious

occasions, this sweet rice preparation is like a spring song!

Discover the majestic palaces and architecturally renowned forts of Uttar Pradesh. Built in 16th to 19th

Century they reflect the glorious past of Uttar Pradesh heritage:-

1. Surat Bhavan Palace, Singhai, Lakhimpur Khiri2. Mahesh Vilas Palace, Shivgarh, Raibareily3. Rampura Fort4. Bansi Palace

Enjoy Stay Facility at heritage Properties

1. An Evening with the Scion of Mehmoodabad at Iqbal Manzil.2. Rampura Fort3. Kotwara House4. OEL House

New Circuits in Uttar Pradesh

Mahabharat Circuit : Hastinapur, Baghpat, Bijnor.

Ram Van-Gaman Yatra Circuit : Ayodhya, Bharatkund, Belha Devi-Pratapgarh, Shrangverpur,

Allahabad, Chitrakoot etc.

Circuit related to Ist War of Independence in 1857 : Jhansi, Meerut, Lucknow, Raibareily, Unnao,

Kanpur, Bithoor, Sitapur, Badaun, Bareilly, Hathras, Shahjahanpur, Mainpuri, Firozabad, Gorakhpur,

Devaria, Azamgarh, Balia, Varanasi, Allahabad etc.

Jain Circuit : Shravasti, Kaushambi, Allahabad, Ayodhya, Faizabad, Ronahi, Kampil, Hastinapur,

Sauripur, Agra, Banaras, Kushinagar etc.

Sikh Circuit : Gurudwara Pakki Sangat (Allahabad) - Gurudwara Ahrora, Gurudwara Chota & Gurudwara

Bhuili (mirzapur) - Gurudwara Nichibagh, Gurudwara Gurubagh (Varanasi) - Guru Teg Bahadur Ji ki

Tapsthali, Chachakpur, Gurudwara Raasmandal (Jaunpur) - Gurudwara Brahmkund (Ayodhya) -

Gurudwara Ahyiyaganj (Lucknow) - Gurudwara Singh Sabha (Mathura) - Gurudwara Hathighat,

Gurudwara Guru ka Taal (Agra) etc.

Sufi Circuit : Fatehpur Sikri, Rampur, Badaun, Bareilly, Lucknow, Kakori, Dewasharif (Barabanki),

Bahraich, Kichocha Sharif, Kade Shah - Kada (Kaushambi), Allahabad, Kantit Sharif (Mirzapur) etc.

Christian Circuit : Merut-Sardhana, Agra, Kanpur, Lucknow, Allahabad, Varanasi, Gorakhpur etc.

Handicraft Circuit : Lucknow, Agra, Aligarh, Firozabad, Rampur, Kanpur, Kannauj, Vrindavan,

Muradabad, Khurja, Varanasi, Bhadohi, Mirzapur, Chunar, Jaunpur, Gorakhpur etc.

Heritage WalkAgra

Exploring the trail of a Mughal Kinari Bazar in erstwhile Capital of India

The Heritage Walk of Agra has been designed to unveil “The Pristine Glory of Mughals to the Discerning

Travelers”. The Heritage Walk, is conducted to explore the architectural & socio – urban Character

of Agra – The erstwhile Mughal Capital of India.

The Heritage Walk of Agra is a Guided Walk of one & a half hour, which is designed in consultation of

prominent Historians & Academicians of Agra. The Walk traces the birth of Mughal Capital Agra or

Akbarabad till its present times.

The Walk begins from the gigantic Jama Maszid, where you are

brought in a Decorated Horse Cart (Tonga) from the parking area

of the Agra Fort. You are requested to disembark from your

Tonga at the Jama Maszid, so that you can mingle in the crowds

& begin to experience down town Agra, further to the Silver

Lingam of Mankameshwar Mahadev (The Shiva Temple),

proceeding into narrow lanes selling articles used for adornment

of images of Gods & Goddesses, looking at Ornamental &

Decorated Facades in the Spice Market of Rawat Para, the walk

enters into the famous Khoya Gali of Chitti Khana. Our walk

proceeds into the Namak Ki Mandi, where artisans beat Gold &

Silver to make Foils of Gold & Silver for medicinal use in Aurveda

& brings us in front of Akbari Mosque to connect to the 16th Century stone paved Street of Kinari Bazaar.

One wonders that how heritage has become the soul of Agra as one walks through these lively streets.

Finally, the walk culminates in front of Jama Maszid and Bicycle Rickshaws pull the travelers back to the

destination. The important point points while undertaking the Heritage Walk have been mentioned here

below:-

1. Jama Maszid (Friday Mosque):-

The Jami Mosque was built by Princess Jahanara Begum in the

year 1648 & is the main Friday Mosque of Agra since Mughal times.

It was once connected to the Delhi Gate of Agra Fort through an

octagonal enclosure, which survived as a market once the Agra Fort

Railway Station was introduced by the British. The main entrance of

the Jami Maszid was demolished by British during uprisings of

1857.

2. Vaidya Ramdutta Gali: -

This old lane of Agra is dedicated to the memory of Vaidya Ramdutt

Sharma, who used the knowledge of traditional herbal medicines &

pulse reading of Ayurveda for treating chronic ailments of human

body. Today his family descendants live & practice the ancestral

knowledge for the service of the humanity in the same fashion.

3. Mankameshwar Temple: -

This Age old Shiva Temple with silver Lingam is said to have

established by Lord Shiva himself, when he stopped here on the

way to Mathura to seek darshan of Lord Krishna when Vishnu

incarnated as Lord Krishna. The temple is called “Mankameshwar”

because here the wish of Lord Shiva of getting darshan of Lord

Krishna was granted and fulfilled. Today it is the main sitting deity of

Agra & is visited by thousands of devotees every day.

4. Temple of Musicians Balcony:-

Temple of Bihari Ji, which is another form of Lord Krishna was built

by Mohanlal Ji Gotewale in the year 1880 and is commonly known

as “Gotewalon ka Mandir” as the family is still involved in the

traditional business of brocade borders for Saaris, dresses & Hand

bags continuing the traditional family business. The temple is

famous for its most beautifully ornately carved balcony.

5. Chidiyawala Mandir: -

Temple of Lord Shri Ram was built by Marwari family of

Maheshwaris from Indore in the year 1931. The temple is also called

a “Chidiyawala Mandir” as at one time it had many Gooseberry

Trees in the courtyard & hundreds of birds used to perch there.

Once an English police commander came patrolling there & his

uniform got spoiled because of bird droppings while he stood under

a tree. When he tried to find out what it was using torchlight, he saw

hundreds of birds on the trees, since than it’s known as Chidiyawala Mandir dedicated to Lord Rama & Sita.

6. Chitti Khana:- The erstwhile palace of begum Sati un Nissa, who was maid of honour of Mumtaz Mahal,

the lady of the Taj Mahal, and later became governess to princess Jahanaraa begum daughter of

Shahjahan. The area around her palace came to be known as Satti Khana & later to “Chitti Khana” which

houses beautifully decorated Haveli Entrances & facades & reminds us the glorious life of mughal nobles

in Agra.

7. Building of 1914:-

This beautiful House in dilapidated state was built in the year 1914

by Shri Gulab Chand Dhanna Lal Surana, who were a family of Gold

& Silver Brocade merchants. The family still continues the tradition &

their building shows the patronage of the British Empire as they even

made an image of King George the Vth on the building which can

still be seen. This building even today has beautiful intricate carvings

& fine work of glazed tiles.

8. Akbari Mosque: -

This beautiful Mosque was built by Akbar & was later renovated by

Shahjahan’s third wife Begum Isrul ul Jahan Akbari, who carried the

nickname of “Akbari” & since than it’s known as Akbari Mosque.

This mosque was renovated in late 19th Century. The façade of this

mosque consists of a row of identical cusped arches leading into the

prayer hall. There is a large courtyard in front of the mosque

overlooking kinari bazaar.

9. Patal Hanuman Temple: -

The Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman “The Monkey God” is

known as patal Hanuman or Human of nether world, who rescued

Lord Rama & his brother Lakshamana from the prison of demon king

“Ahiravan” as the myth goes. The temple attracts thousands of

devotees every day.

10. Dara Shikoh’s Library: -

This Mughal styled building is said to be Shahejhans’s son Dara

Shikoh’s library. The building had fallen into private possession

during early British times but later was taken over by British to be

the Town Hall in the year 1886. This building now houses a

municipal school but speaks of the hey days of Golden Era it has

seen.

11. Agra Fort: -

The most beautiful Fort built by Mughals in Agra which had

witnessed the architectural style of three great mughal rulers i.e.

Akbar, Jahangir & Shahjehan. The Agra Fort today is a prominent

world heritage site other than Taj Mahal & Agra Fort in Agra.

12. Amar Singh Gate: -

Amar Singh Gate of Agra Fort is dedicated to the memory of Amar

Singh Rathor of Nagaur, who was offended by Salawat Khan while

attending the court of Shahjehan. Salawat Khan was killed in front of

Shajejhan, who had ordered immediate execution of Amar Singh

Rathor. Amar Singh fled but to be captured later at the gate after a

fierce battle & was executed to be cremated on the banks of

Yamuna river in Agra.

Mode of Transportation: Traditional Mughal Tongas or Bicycle Rickshaws adorned with seasonal flowers

are to be used to bring the participants to & fro from the starting & terminating stations. The actual walk is

about 45 minutes to 01 Hour excluding transportation.

Do’s & Don’ts: Participants are requested to stay in-group & always follow the instructions of your Tour

Guide.

Kindly do not take photographs wherever you think you may offend the local residents. Participants are

requested to maintain the sanctity of religious places and abide by the rules of archaeological monuments.

Kindly be careful of pickpockets & keep paying attention to your valuables, wallets, purses & Photographic

Equipments, while undertaking the walk.

Kindly avoid the hawkers & peddlers while on walk.

Rajiv Saxena,

Executive Director,

Sanskriti Vacations (India) Pvt. Ltd.

SF - 3A, Parsvanath Panchavati, Opp. ADA Heights,

Taj Nagari Phase - II, Fatehabad Road, Agra - 282001, India

Ph: +91562 6533474, Direct: +91562 2230117,

Fax: +91562 2230144, Mobile:+9198370 30805,

Email: [email protected]

Kaiser Bagh Heritage WalkClick here to view

Lucknow Heritage Walk

By 1766 Panch Mahal had become the most prominent feature of Lucknow and was later called Machchi

Bhawan. The fort palace probably got its name for two reasons: one, because the fort had two fishes on

each of its twenty-six arches, hence, Machchi or fish. The second reason could be that the Sheikh had

been awarded the title Mahi Maratib or ‘The honour of the Fish’ by the Mughal emperor.[i] The emblem of

two fishes facing each other was the insignia of the Sheikhs, and the Nawabs and the British alike, later

adopted the same. Even today, the fish emblem can be seen on many buildings and government seals of

Lucknow.

As the legend goes, it is believed that “Lakshman” the brother of Lord Rama laid the foundation of this city

in the Tretayug. Since that day it has been known as Lakshmanpur. Origin of the name of Lakhanu is traced

to a much later date after Lakhna, an Ahir, who designed the fort known as Machhi Bhavan. To the south-

west of the historically significant Pir Muhammad Hill lies the Chowk area of Lucknow.

It is the core of Old Lucknow. Today, this historic core displays a combination of unique cultural attractions,

chiefly in the form of its built environment and considerable commercial an

d artisan activities associated both with the location of the area and its resident population.

http://www.up-tourism.com/heritage_lko-qaiser.htm

Chowk has had a considerable size of Hindu and Muslim population, long before the days of Emperor

Akbar (1556-1605). In 1590, when Emperor Akbar divided the whole of India into twelve Provinces,

Lucknow was selected as the seat of the Subedar or Governor of Awadh. At that time, Shaikh Abdul Rehim,

a noble man of Bijanpur (U.P.), went to Delhi to seek his fortune. Eventually, he became an official in the

imperial service and was granted land in Lucknow. In Lucknow, he took up his residence on Pir Muhammad

Hill and built in small fort near it, which came to be known as Machchi Bhavan.

Before the construction of the Machchi Bhavan, the important landmarks of Chowk, were the Gole Darwaza

and the Tomb of Shah Mina, a celebrated Muslim mystic settled in Lucknow about 1450.

In 1775, with Asaf-ud-Daula’s accession, the town of Lucknow acquired great splendor.

To the west of Machchi Bhavan on the banks of the river Gomti, he built Daulat Khana as a residence for

himself, the Rumi Darwaza and his incomparable Bada Imambara. After the revolt of 1857, the needs of the

new master grafted a different built environment onto the city. A hybrid city was created that was both

peculiar to and typical of the colonial era. The first phase of restructuring of the old city was therefore done

by the British, in accordance to their needs. The treasure house of historical and cultural heritage - the

Chowk, has faded in course of time. Yet it has retained some of its old glamour, in the changed harmony

with modern trade and culture. Today, the rhythmic sound of workers hammering silver into thin sheets

sound like the drum of symphony orchestra. There is an intermingled aroma of fragrance of “itra”, scented



oil and delicious sweets under preparation in the air. The market has a large number of “Gota and Kinari”

shops, “Saryaf Khanas” and “Attar” shops. Thus even today, this place is a unique shopping arcade where

gold and silver merchants, chikan workers, flower vendors at phool wali gali, zari-kamdani specialists are

found at the same place.

Heritage walk of Lucknow: A guided tour of the old city, starting from Lal Pul, Tila Wali Masjid, Bara

Imambara, Gol Darwaja, Chowk Bazaar, Phool Wali Gali to Akbari Darwaja is available daily from 7-30 a.m.

to 10-00 a.m. April to September,

and 8-00 a.m. to 10-30 a.m. October to March



PLACE OF INTEREST

Sanctuary Park Location Predominant Nearest Railhead/Road

Suhelwa Wildlife

Sanctuary

Tapovan Lodge

District Balrampur

Gonda (42km)

Kishanpur

Sanctuary

Nepalese Terai

District Lakhimpur Kheri

Tiger, Leopard, Swamp Deer Mailani (20km)

Katarniaghat

Sanctuary

Nepalese Terai,

District Bahraich

Tiger, Leopard, Swamp Deer,

Chital, Nilgai, Sambhar

Bichhiya (4km)

Nawabganj Bird

Sanctuary

District Unnao Avian fauna Kusumbhi (8km) Nawabganj

UPSTDC Accommodation

available

Hastinapur

Sanctuary

District Meerut, Muzaffarnagar,

Ghaziabad, Bijnor, Jyoti-ba

Phule Nagar

Chital, Sambhar, Nilgai, Leopard,

Hyena

Meerut (35km)

National

Chambal

Sanctuary

District Agra, Etawah Maggar, Gharial, Chinkara,

Sambhar, Nilgai, Wolf

Agra (70km)/ Etawah (15km)

Mahavir Swami

Sanctuary

District Lalitpur Leopard, Nilgai, Wild bear,

Sambhar

Lalitpur (30km)

Ranipur

Sanctuary

District Banda, Chitrakoot Sloth bear, Black buck, Spur

fowl, Painted Partridge, Chinkara

Karvi (25km)

Chandra Prabha

Sanctuary

District Chandauli Panther, Chinkara, Sambhar,

Chital, Peafowl

Varanasi Mughal Sarai

(65km)/ Chakiya (20km)

Kaimoor

Sanctuary

District Mirzapur and

Sonbhadra

Leopard, Black buck, Chital,

Ratel, Peafowl

Churk (20km)

Lakh Bahosi

Sanctuary

District Kannauj Fishing cat, Nilgai, Jackal,

Mongoose, Monkey, Local /

Migratory birds

Kannauj (40km)

Samaspur

Sanctuary

District Rae Bareli Jackal Mongoose, Hare,

Local/Migratory birds

Unchahar (19km)/ Salon

(10km)

Suhelva

Sanctuary

District Balrampur, Gonda,

Sravasti

Tiger, Cheetal, Leopard, Bear,

Boar, Wild cat, Birds

Balrampur (60km)

Sandi Sanctuary Distirct Hardoi Jackal, Mongoose, Nilgai,


Hardoi (19km)

Bakhira

Sanctuary

District Sant Kabir Nagar Jackal, Mongoose, Nilgai,


Sant Kabir Nagar (20km)

Patna Sanctuary District Etah Fishing cat, Jackal, Mongoose,

Hare, Nilgai, Monkey, Fox,


Jalesar (10km)

Sur Sarovar

Sanctuary

District Agra Jackal, Mongoose, Hare,


Agra (20km)

Suraha Tal

Sanctuary

District Ballia Jackal, Mongoose, Nilgai,

Monkey, Local/Migratory birds

Ballia (13km)

Vijai Sagar

Sanctuary

District Mahoba Jackal, Mongoose, Wild cat,


Mahoba (4km)

Saman

Sanctuary

Distirct Mainpuri Jackal, Mongoose, Hare,


Mainpuri (38km)

Parvati Arga

Sanctuary

District Gonda Jackal, Mongoose, Hare, Nilgai,

Wild cat, Local/Migratory birds

Gonda (40km)

Okhla Sanctuary District Ghaziabad, Gautam

Buddha Nagar

Local/Migratory birds Delhi (15km) / Okhla (1km)

Sohagi Barwa

Sanctuary

District Maharajganj Tiger, Leopard, Cheetal, Bear,

Wild cat, Wild boar, Python

Gorakhpur (56km)/

Maharajganj (50km)

Kachhua

Sanctuary

District Varanasi Species of Tortoise, Ganga

dolfin, Water animals

Varanasi

Forest Department provides accommodation at most of the national parks and sanctuaries.For more information and reservation contact:-

Chief Wildlife Warden,

17-Rana Pratap Marg,

Lucknow; Ph.: 0522-2206584

Patna Bird Sanctuary54 km. The Patna Bird Sanctuary, located at Jalesar sub division of Etah district, is spread over an area of 108

hactare . This resort was given recognition as a protected sanctuary in the year 1991. Ornithologists have

reported about 300 different species of exotic birds with multicolour plumes clustering here for roosting and

breeding during the peak season of winter months. These winged visitors start migrating back when hot

weather conditions set in during the month of March. The scenic beauty of the sanctuary with intertwined date

trees provides a topographic atmosphere akin to Goa, in Uttar Pradesh. Besides the migratory birds, Patna Bird

Sanctuary is a permanent abode for local birds also, which abound all through the year. For long it has been a

favourite breeding centre for a large number of migratory birds. An old and historic temple dedicated to Lord

Shiva attracts thousands of pilgrims for spiritual pursuits. It is the thinkling of the temple bells mingled with the

chirping of birds that creates an atmosphere of rare tranquility here.

Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary45 km. On the Lucknow-Kanpur Highway, this bird sanctuary attacts rare Siberian migratory birds.

Accommodation: UPSTDC Priyadarshini Motel.

Obra Thermal Power Station

Obra Thermal Power Station is situated at Obra in Sonebhadra district in Uttar Pradesh. The plant is 125 km away from Varanasi. This Uttar Pradesh thermal power plant is equipped with thirteen units, each of which is coal. The units are divided into four stages:

The 1st stage comprises 5 Units

The 2nd stage comprises 3 Units

The 3rd stage comprises 3 Units

The 4th stage comprises 2 Units

This thermal power plant in Uttar Pradesh had power generating capacity of 1,500 MW that has decreased to 660mw. w now.

Obra Thermal Power StationU.P. Rajya VidyutUtpadan Nigam Ltd.P.O. ObraDistt.SonebhadraUttar Pradesh

Anpara Thermal Power Station Anpara Thermal Power Station is situated at Anpara in Sonebhadra district of Uttar Pradesh. It is almost 200 km away from Varanasi. This Uttar Pradesh thermal power station has 5 units each of which are coal-fired stations. The coal requirements of the plant are fed by Kakri, Kharia and Beena coal mines, NCL. The plant has a installed capacity of 1630 MW, which happens to be the highest among all the thermal power stations in UP. The 1st 3 units have got a power capacity of 210 MW while the remaining 2 have 500 MW each.

Anapara Thermal Power Station(A&B)U.P. Rajya VidyutUtapadan Nigam Ltd.P.O. Anapara,Distt. Mirzapur-Uttar Pradesh- 231225

Panki Thermal Power Station Situated at Panki, in the Kanpur district of Uttar Pradesh, the Panki Thermal Power Station is only 16 km away from Kanpur. The plant was formed in 10 stages, both with 10 8 units. The coal to the plant is supplied by the coal mines of ECL and BCCL.

Panki Thermal Power StationP.O. PankiKanpurUttar Pradesh- 208020

Parichha Thermal Power Station Parichha Thermal Power Station is situated at Parichha in the Jhansi district of Uttar Pradesh. It is 25 km away from Jhansi. This Uttar Pradesh thermal power plant has 1 stage with 2 units. The coal is provided to the plant by BCCL and ECL. The plant has an installed total capacity of 890 MW, divided into two units of 210 mw and two units of 110mw.

Parichha Thermal Power StationUPRVVNLP.O. ParichhaJhansiUttar Pradesh- 284304

Harduaganj Thermal Power Station Harduaganj Thermal Power Station is situated at Harduaganj in the Aligarh district of Uttar Pradesh. It is about 18 km away from Aligarh. The plant consists of 3 stages with seven units. 460 MW is the total capacity of Harduaganj Thermal Power. The capacity of each of the units is as follows:

two Units of 50 MW

four Units of 60 MW

one Unit of 110 MW

Harduaganj Thermal Power StationUttar Pradesh RajyaVidyut Utpadan NigamLtd.P.O. Kasimpur

Distt. AligarhUttar Pradesh- 202127

Tanda Thermal Power Plant

Situated at Vidyutnagar in the Ambedkarnagar District of the state of Uttar Pradesh, Tanda Thermal Power Plant is a coal based plant generating electricity of 440 MW. North Karnpura Coal Fields supplies the plant with coal while the water is served by the Sarayu River.

Tanda Thermal Power StationP.O. VidyutnagarDistt.AMBEDKARNAGAR,Uttar Pradesh- 231222

Singrauli Super Thermal Power Plant

Singrauli Super Thermal Power Plant is at Singrauli in the state of Uttar Pradesh. This coal based plant has been formed by NTPC.

Singrauli Super Thermal Power StationP.O. ShaktinagarDistt.SonephadraUttar Pradesh- 231222,

Apart from these plants, some of the other Uttar Pradesh thermal power plants are as follows

Auriya Gas Power Project (NCR)

P.O: Dibiyapur,

Dist: Auraiya

Uttar Pradesh

Pin- 206 244

National Capital Power Station

P.O. Vidyut Nagar

Dadri (NCR) Distt

Gautambudh Nagar

Uttar Pradesh- 201008

Feroze Gandhi Unchahar Thermal

Power Project

P.O. Unchahar

Distt. Raebareli


Rihand Super Thermal Power

Project

P.O. Rihand Nagar-Distt. Sonebhadra


Upcoming Uttar Pradesh Thermal Power Plants

Hindalco Industries Ltd (999.7 MW)

Renusagar, District Sonebhadra, Uttar Pradesh

NTPC (2 x 500 MW)

District Sonebhadra, Uttar Pradesh

Sangam Power Generation Ltd (2 x 660 MW)

Karchhana, Allahabad, U.P

NTPC (2 x 500 MW)

Rihand stage III, Sonebhadra District

Uttar Pradesh

U P Rajya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (2 x 500 MW)

Obra, Sonebhadra District

Uttar Pradesh

U P Power Corp (3 x 660 ,MW)

Allahabad District

Uttar Pradesh

Reliance Energy Generation Ltd (1320 MW)

Dehra in Ghaziabad District, Uttar Pradesh

Rama Paper Mills (6 MW)

Kiratpur in Bijnor District, Uttar Pradesh

Last Updated on : 22 September 2010

Uttar Pradesh Thermal Power Plants

Power Station Location District StateInstalled

Capacity(MW)

Obra Thermal Power Station Obra Sonebhadra Uttar

Pradesh

1322

Anpara Thermal Power Station Anpara Sonebhadra Uttar

Pradesh

1630

Panki Thermal Power Station Panki Kanpur Uttar

Pradesh

210

Parichha Thermal Power

Station

Parichha Jhansi Uttar

Pradesh

640

Harduaganj Thermal Power

Station

Harduaganj Aligarh Uttar

Pradesh

220

Singrauli Super Thermal

Power Station

Shaktinagar Sonebhadra Uttar

Pradesh

2000

Rihand TPP Rihand

Nagar

Sonebhadra Uttar

Pradesh

2000

National Capital TPP Vidyutnagar Gautam Budh

Nagar

Uttar

Pradesh

1820

Feroz Gandhi Unchahar TPP Unchahar Raebareli Uttar

Pradesh

1050

Tanda TPP Vidyutnagar Ambedkar Nagar Uttar

Pradesh

440

Rosa Thermal Power Plant Rosa Shahjahanpur Uttar

Pradesh

600

Facts about Uttar PradeshPosted in States of India by Team Work On February 17, 2014. No comments

Uttar Pradesh is a state which is located in the Northern part of India. Its

economy is largely dependent on Agriculture and Service Sector which

comprises of Travel and Tourism, Hotel Industry, Real Estate etc. This state is

considered very pure as it is the birth place of Lord Rama, Krishna and Gautama

Buddha. Some major facts about the state of Uttar Pradesh is mentioned below:

Name: State Uttar Pradesh (UP) was previously known as United Provinces.

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Existence: It was created on 1st April, 1937 as United Province which was

renamed to as Uttar Pradesh in 1950.

Boundary: It is surrounded by Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Nepal,

Bihar, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh.

Population: As per Census 2011, the total population of Uttar Pradesh is

199,581,477. Uttar Pradesh holds 1st position in population wise and become the

most populous state of India.

Land Area: The total land area of Uttar Pradesh is 243,286 sq. km. Uttar

Pradesh holds 5th position in area wise.

Language: Its Official Languages are Hindi and Urdu.

Literacy: Its Literacy Ratio is 69.72%

City: Lucknow is its capital City.

District: There are 75 districts present in Uttar Pradesh.

Climate: Uttar Pradesh has to experience 3 types of seasons. These are Winter,

Summer and Monsoon. Monsoon period is between June and September.

Summer Season is between March and May. Winter Season is between January

and February.

Connectivity: Uttar Pradesh is well connected via roadways, railways and

airways. This state has many airports situated in different parts of the state.

Best Time: The Best Time to visit this state is between September and

November.

Places of Interests: Places like Allahabad, Ayodha, Mathura etc. situated in

Uttar Pradesh are considered as Pilgrim Centre’s and attracts people all over the

world. Besides there are Rumi Darwaza, National Botanical Research Institute

which attracts people.

Festivals: Most popular and largely celebrated festivals of Uttar Pradesh are

Diwali and Rama Navami. Other festivals also celebrated like Makar Sakranti,

Janmashtami, Eid, Chhath Puja etc.

Religion: In Uttar Pradesh, around 81% peoples are Hindus and 17% are Islam.

The remaining 2% follows other religions.

Uttar Pradesh

Area 2,40,928 sq km

Capital Lucknow

Population 16,60,52,859

Principal Languages Hindi and Urdu

History and Geography: The history of Uttar Pradesh is very ancient and interesting. It is

recognised in the later Vedic Age as Brahmarshi Desha or Madhya Desha. Many great sages of

the Vedic times like Bhardwaja, Gautam, yagyavalkaya, Vashishtha, Vishwamitra and Valmiki

flourished in this state. Several sacred books of the Aryans were also composed here. Two great

epics of India, Ramayana and Mahabharata, appear to have been inspired by Uttar Pradesh.

In the sixth century BC Uttar Pradesh was associated with two new religions-Jainism and

Budhism. It was at Sarnath that Buddha preached his first sermon and Buddha breathed his last.

Several centres in Uttar Pradesh like Ayodhya, Prayag, Varanasi and Mathura became reputed

centres of learning. In the medieval period Uttar Pradesh passed under Muslim rule and led the

way to new synthesis of Hindu and Islamin culture. Ramananda and his Muslim disciple Kabir,

Tulsidas, Surdas and many other intellectuals contributed to the growth of Hindi and other

languages.

Uttar Pradesh preserved its intellectual excellence even under the British administration. The

British combined Agra and Oudh into one province and called it United Province of Agra and

Oudh. The name was shortened to the United Provinces in 1935. In January 1950 the United

Province was renamed as Uttar Pradesh.

The state is bound by Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh in the north, Haryana in the west,

Madhya Pradesh in the South and Bihar in the east. Uttar Pradesh can be divided into two distinct

religions :-

1. Southern Hills and

2. Gangetic Plains

JalesarThe next time you see those lovely small cast bells hung around the necks of cows in Switzerland, be sure to ask where it comes from. You’d be surprised by the answer. Jalesar, a small town with a population of around 40,000 in Etah district is known for casting brass bells and exporting it around the world.

KarmnasaThis is a river unlike any other in India. As its Hindi name suggests, it is the only cursed river and it is believed that touching its water

would ruin one’s plans. There’s hardly any development along this river. People around this river just eat dry fruits because cooking food would require water!

ShahjahanpurEven decades after Independence, the streets of Shahjahanpur witness a strange and crude convention. On the day of Holi, the festival of colours, people of the town parade a randomly chosen man, almost naked and wearing a garland of shoes, while beating him with brooms. This happens in the presence of senior district officials and even the High Court is aware of it, but somehow it has escaped a ban.

MuzaffarnagarThe Jat-dominated district in western Uttar Pradesh has the highest per capita income in the state. One of its blocks, Shamli, is said to have the highest LIC premiums in the country.

The Parijat TreeRoughly 40 kms away from Lucknow, stands the parijat tree, which is supposed to be the only one of its kind in the world. It is known for its flower, which changes colour during the day. Legend has it that the parijat plant was brought down from heaven by Lord Krishna for his second wife, Satyabhama.

Uttar Pradesh: Administrative Structure

Considering the divisions of the state Uttar Pradesh, there are 75 districts, 18 divisions, 822 blocks,

52021 Panchayats and 107452 villages. Uttar Pradesh is the fifth largest state in India in terms of

land area. The land area of Uttar Pradesh is 240,928 km². A district collector monitors a district. In

Uttar Pradesh, he is also known as a District Magistrate or DM. He is an officer from IAS or PCS

who gets a promotion as an IAS officer on the basis of tenure in Provincial Civil Services UPPSC.

A District Magistrate is appointed by the Government of Uttar Pradesh. A District Superintendent of

Police or DSP is also known as a Superintendent of Police. A DSP heads the District Police

organization of the state police as per the Police Act of 1861. A Sub division Police is under every

sub division. The sub division Police is headed by a Police officer of the rank of Assistant

Superintendent of Police or DSP (Deputy Superintendent of Police). Every ministry and the

respective department are headed by a minister.

Listing of divisions of Uttar Pradesh:

Division Headquarter Districts

Agra Division Agra

AgraFirozabadMainpuriMathura

Aligarh division Aligarh

AligarhEtahHathrasKasganj

Allahabad division Allahabad

AllahabadFatehpurKaushambiPratapgarh

Azamgarh division Azamgarh AzamgarhBalliaMau

Bareilly division Bareilly BadaunBareilly

PilibhitShahjahanpur

Basti division BastiBastiSant Kabir NagarSiddharthnagar

Chitrakoot division Chitrakoot

BandaChitrakootHamirpurMahoba

Devipatan division Gonda

BahraichBalarampurGondaShravasti

Faizabad division Faizabad

Ambedkar NagarAmethiBarabankiFaizabadSultanpur

Gorakhpur division Gorakhpur

DeoriaGorakhpurKushinagarMaharajganj

Jhansi division JhansiJalaunJhansiLalitpur

Kanpur division Kanpur

AuraiyaEtawahFarrukhabadKannaujKanpur DehatKanpur Nagar

Lucknow division Lucknow

HardoiLakhimpur KheriLucknowRaebareliSitapurUnnao

Meerut division Meerut

BagpatBulandshahrGautam Buddha NagarGhaziabadHapurMeerut

Mirzapur division MirzapurMirzapurSant Ravidas NagarSonbhadra

Moradabad division Moradabad

AmrohaBijnorMoradabadRampurSambhal

Saharanpur division SaharanpurMuzaffarnagarShamliSaharanpur

Varanasi division Varanasi

ChandauliGhazipurJaunpurVaranasi

Uttar Pradesh: Historical Places

Agra Fort

Agra fort is made up of massive sandstone. It’s construction was begun in the year 1565 by Akbar.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage site situated about 2.5 kilometres north - west of its more famous

sister monument Taj Mahal. It can be described as a wall city.

Allahabad High Court

Allahabad High Court, situated in Allahabad was considered by Frank Lishman. The foundation of

the building was laid in 1911 by Chief justice, Sir John Staley.

Allahabad Museum

Allahabad museum was established in the year 1931 and was inaugurated in 1947 by the first Prime

Minister of India, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru. The museum is known for it’s unique collection of art and

objects. It is funded by the Ministry of culture.

Archeological Museum Sarnath

Archeological Museum Sarnath is the oldest site museum by the Archaeological Survey of India. We

could see various images of Buddha in different postures as well as the sand stone architecture by

Bhikshu Bala, etc.

Bada Imambara

Bara Imambara is an imambara complex situated in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Bara Imambara was

built by Asaf-ud-Daula, Nawab in the year 1784. Bara Imambara is also called the Asafi Imambara.

Bharat Kala Museum

The Bharat Kala Museum is located inside the Banaras Hindu University campus. Banaras Hindu

University is among the oldest educational institutes of India. BHU was founded by Pandit Madan

Mohan Malviya. Bharat Kala Museum has extraordinary collection of sculpture, paintings and

textiles.

Bibiyapur Kothi

Bibiapur Kothi is located on the right river Gomti in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. This monument was

built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula and was designed with the assistance of General Claude Martin.

Butler Palace

The Butler palace, a grand palatial building is located in Lucknow. It was built by Sir Mohammad Ali

Mohammad Khan who was the Rajah of Mehmoodabad during the year 1919. This beautiful

monument was initially used for the official residence of Sir Harcourt Butler.

Chota Imambara

Chhota Imambara is also known as Hussainabad Imambara. It is a great monument located in

Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Chhota Imambara was built by Muhammad Ali Shah who was the third

Nawab of Avadh in 1838. This monument is also known as the Palace of Lights as it is beautifully

decorated during special festivals.

Chunar Fort

The Chunar Fort is located in Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh. It is located 23 kilometers south

west of Varanasi. It is the collection of Ashoka's inscriptions and pillars made of sandstone.

Dhamekh Stupa

Dhamek Stupa is a massive stupa located at Sarnath. It is 13 km away from Varanasi, Uttar

Pradesh. The Dhamek Stupa was built in the year 500 CE.

Government Educational Museum

Government Educational Museum was established in 1959 in Muzaffarnagar. It is famous for several

historical metal images, stone sculptures, terracotta and coins. It has wide variety of paintings,

cannons and stamps.

Govt. Museum (Mathura)

Government museum is an archaeological museum situated in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh state. It was

founded by Sir F.S Growse in the year 1874. The museum is famous for ancient sculptures of the

Mathura school. It has a splendid preservation of Mathura's heritage.

Hussainabad Clock Tower

The Hussainabad Tower, one of the greatest examples of British architecture in India is situated in

Lucknow. It was built by the Hussainabad Endowment. It is one of the appealing facades of

Lucknow.

Jehangir Palace

Jehangir Palace was built by Akbar for his preferred son Jehangir. Akbar built this palace to provide

him with all the luxury and comfort inside the fort. It displays an outstanding combination of the

Hindu and Muslim architecture.

Jhansi Fort

Jhansi Fort is situated at Jhasi, Uttar Pradesh within the city walls. It was built in the year 1613 by

Raja Bir Singh Deo.It is built on a hilltop called Bangira. Jhansi city was a stronghold of the

Chandela kings.

Kalinjar Fort

Kalinjar is located in Banda District of Uttar Pradesh. It has an ancient fort which rises above

agricultural countryside. Kalinjar is one of the most characteristic specimens of the hill fortresses and

hill shrines,

Khurshid Manzil

Khurshid Manzil is located near Tarowali Kothi. It is a miniature castle like edifice that was

undertaken during the reign of Nawab Saadat Ali Khan.

Kothi Darshan Vilas

Kothi Darshan Vilas is a unique mix of European and Muslim architecture. It was constructed by

Nawab Ghazi-ud-din Haider. This monument was finished by Nasir-ud-din Haider .

Kothi Dilkusha

Dilkusha Kothi is the remains of an eighteenth century house. It was built in the English baroque

style. It was constructed in the Gothic style. It was built by Nawab Saadat Ali Khan.

Kothi Farhat Baksh

Kothi Farhat Baksh was first constructed by General Claud Martin. He constructed this monument

for his residence in the year 1781. It is located at the bank of river Gomti, Lucknow.

Lucknow State Museum

Lucknow State Museum is the modern three storied building in Prince of Wales Zoological Gardens

Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. It was earlier situated in the historic Choti Chattar Manzil and the Lal

Baradar.

Maharaja Banaras Vidya Mandir Museum

Maharaja Banaras Vidya Mandir Museum lies the Ramnagar fort. The museum displays weapon,

palanquins , manuscripts and decorative arts.

Mayo Memorial Hall

Mayo Memorial Hall is located near the Thornhill and Mayne Memorial. It is is a big hall, with a 180-ft

high tower.

Ramnagar Fort

Ramnagar Fort was built in 17th century. It is 16 km from railway station. It is situated across the

Ganges. Ramnagar Palace is the palace of the former Maharaja of Benares.

Sikandra

Sikandra was begun by Akbar. It was completed by his son Jehangir in 1613 AD. Sikandra was the

site of Akbar's mausoleum,

Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal is one among the Seven Wonders of the World. It was built by the Emperor Shahjahan.

Taj Mahal was renowned for its spectacular architecture. It is recognized as a symbol of enduring

love.

Victoria Memorial

Victoria Memorial is built of white makrana marble. It is located in Victoria Park. It’s name has

changed to Begum Hazrat Mahal Park.

Uttar Pradesh: Geography

The fifth largest state of India is Uttar Pradesh. It is also the most populous state of India. The

climate of Uttar Pradesh varies widely as compared to other states. Its temperature can go as high

as 47 °C in summer season or can touch the mark of -1 °C in the winter season. Uttar Pradesh is

located in the north-central part of India. It spreads over a large area. The plains of the state are

quite distinctly different from the high mountains in the north. In the North, Uttar Pradesh is bounded

by Nepal. On the North West lie Himachal Pradesh and Uttrakhand lies on the north-east. Uttar

Pradesh is the fifth largest state in the country in terms of area.

There are three distinct hypsographical regions in which Uttar Pradesh can be divided. They are:

The Himalayan region: In the North lays The Himalayan Region. The elevation of the Himalayan

region ranges from 300 to 5000m. It has varied terrain and is highly rugged.

The Gangetic Plain: The Gangetic Plain lies in the centre. It is highly fertile alluvial soils. Its flat

topography is broken by numerous lakes, ponds and rivers.

The Vindhya Hills: The Vindhya Hills are located in the south. It has limited water availability. It has

varied topography of plains, hills, plateau and valleys.

There is a wide variety of flora and fauna in Uttar Pradesh. The forests constitute about 12.8% of the

total geographical area of UP State. The districts of Ghazipur, Jaunpur and Ballia have no forest

land however there are 31 other districts that have less forest area. Uttar Pradesh has a wealth of

animal life. The fauna of Uttar Pradesh is among the richest in the country. The variety of animals

include wild bear, tiger, leopard, chital, sambhar, sloth bear, jackal, jungle cat, hare, porcupine,

squirrel, fox and monitor lizards. The most common among birds are the jungle fowl, black partridge,

crow, house sparrow, peafowl, pigeon, dove, blue jay, kite, mynah, quail, parakeet, bulbul,

woodpecker and kingfisher.

Uttar Pradesh: Agriculture

Agriculture in Uttar Pradesh has a significant history. Agriculture is demographically the broadest

economic sector in Uttar Pradesh. It has always played a significant role in improving the social as

well as economic fabric of India. Uttar Pradesh is one of the major contributors to the national food

grain stock.

The fertile region of the Indo - Gangetic plain is contributing a lot in the agricultural development of

the state. The densely populated sugar producing district of Uttar Pradesh is Lakhimpur Kheri. 78%

of national livestock population comes from this place. Uttar Pradesh is a great producer of food

grains in India since the 1950s. Its high-yielding varieties of seed, availability of fertilizers and

irrigation usage helps a great deal in contributing in India’s agriculture.

As compared to the other regions in the state, Western Uttar Pradesh is highly advanced in terms of

agriculture. Pulses, wheat, rice, potatoes and oil seeds are the major agricultural products produced

in the state. The most important cash crop throughout Uttar Pradesh is Sugarcane. As far as

horticulture is concerned, Uttar Pradesh is an important state. Intensive plant cultivation is practiced

all around the state. Apples and mangoes are highly produced.

Around 15% of India's livestock population is supported by the state. In the year 1961, 21% of the

total livestock were buffaloes, 15% were cattle, 13% goats and 8% others. 14% increase in overall

livestock population was seen in the years between 1951-56. Agriculture is also the leading

occupation in Uttar Pradesh. The water sources include rivers, canals, lakes, streams and tanks.

Uttar Pradesh: Economy

The second largest economy in India after the state of Maharashtra is that of Uttar Pradesh. The

gross state domestic product of Uttar Pradesh was $339.5 billion by PPP and $80.9 billion in the

year 2004. The economy grew only 4.4% per year from 1999 to 2008. However from 2007 to 2011,

the economy of Uttar Pradesh grew at over 7% GDP growth rate. This was the time when Indian

economy experienced the melt down due to global recession.

Uttar Pradesh has registered growth rates higher than its target set for the 11th Plan period. The

growth rate of 7.28% was registered against the target of 6.10%. Uttar Pradesh’s debt was

estimated at 67 % of GDP in the year 2005. Uttar Pradesh offers a wide range of policy, subsidies

and fiscal incentives. It has greatly drafted the policies for Information Technology as well as for

biotechnology.

Uttar Pradesh has a great base of skilled labour that makes it an ideal place for knowledge based

sectors. Uttar Pradesh has a good connectivity with 43 national highways, 6 major airports and

railways to all major cities.

Uttar Pradesh: Political Parties

A multi party system is dominant in Uttar Pradesh with a predominance of multiple smaller regional

parties. The Election Commission of India registers parties to contest state as well as national

elections. The party needs to have undertaken some sort of political activity for 5 consecutive years

in oder to gain recognition as State Party. The party must also send minimum 4 per cent quota to the

lower house of India, i.e. the Lok Sabha or 3.33 per cent to the State assembly. If in case, the party

fails to fulfill the above conditions, it can gain recognition by garnering at least 6 per cent of total

votes in either state elections or national elections that are polled in its contesting candidates.

The Election Commission of India automatically recognize the party as a national party if the party

gets recognition in 4 or more states. There are various symbols offered by the Election Commission

of India. A party can choose any of the available symbols. Every state of India along with union

territories have a elected government unless President's rule is imposed.

Uttar Pradesh: Sports

The major sports played in Uttar Pradesh can be classified in two groups:

1. Traditional sports

2. Modern sports

Many renowned sportspersons have brightened the name of Uttar Pradesh. Nawab Mian, the

famous Olympic shooter, Dhyan Chand, field hockey player, Sanjiv Balian, volleyball player and

Anuj, wrestler, all of them have brought glories to the state. The traditional sports of Uttar Pradesh

include swimming, wrestling, water-sports, kabaddi, etc. These games are played according to the

local traditional rules. Cricket is becoming very popular than the game of field hockey. UP state won

its first Ranji Trophy tournament in the year 2006.

The Green Park stadium in Kanpur, an internationally recognized stadium in Uttar Pradesh, has

witnessed major victories. The headquarter of UPCA i.e. Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association(UPCA)

is in Kanpur city of Uttar Pradesh.

Nitin Kumar, Dhyan Chand and Lalit Kumar Upadhyay are some of the finest players from UP state

in field hockey sports. One of the new built international stadiums of the state is in Noida, Uttar

Pradesh named as Greater Noida Cricket Stadium. India’s inaugural F1 Grand Prix race was hosted

in the Buddh International Circuit on October 30, 2011

Uttar Pradesh: Climate

Uttar Pradesh’s climate can be referred as humid subtropical climate with dry winters. Uttar Pradesh

experiences all the 4 seasons and commonly has a climate with humid temperature. Winter season

falls in January, February and it is followed by summers between March and May.

The monsoon season falls between June and September. Variations in climate occur at different

parts of Uttar Pradesh. Many a times the state experiences single climatic pattern with minor

variations due to the uniformity of the vast Indo - Gangetic Plain. Cyclical droughts and floods due to

unpredictable rains are experienced in many parts of the state due to variations in climate.

Summers are very hot, winters are cold and rainy season, wet or dry. Rainfall in state can vary from

an annual average of 170 cm in hilly areas, to 84 cm in Western parts of the state. Relative humidity

is low, that is around 20 per cent and dust winds blow throughout the season.

Uttar Pradesh: Flora and Fauna

Uttar Pradesh has plenty of natural resources. Diverse flora and fauna exist in state despite of

indiscriminate deforestation and poaching. In the belt of temperate mountainous forests, species of

reptiles, insects, mammals and trees are found.

Common birds which are found in Uttar Pradesh are sparrows, parakeets, songbirds, quails,

kingfishers, woodpeckers, blue jays, comb ducks, parrots, snipes, black partridge, peacocks,

junglefowl, doves, bulbuls and house sparrows. Due to the availability of sunlight, shrubs, herbs and

grasses are also abundant in the state.

Large and small species of fauna survive in the Ganges as well as in its tributaries. In 2011, the

forest area in Uttar Pradesh was recorded to be 16,583 km2. It is about 6.88 per cent of the

geographical area of the state. The famous Bird sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh are National Chambal

Sanctuary, Hastinapur Sanctuary, Bakhira Sanctuary, Chandra Prabha Sanctuary, Okhla

Sanctuary and Kaimoor Sanctuary.

The upper Gangetic plain is known for the growth of moist deciduous trees. Tropical thorny forests

along with thorny trees are found in the south western parts of Uttar Pradesh. Reptiles in the state

include cobras, lizards, ghariyals and kraits. Some animals in the state have become extinct and

some are in the verge of extinction. Some of the common fishes in the state are trout and mahaseer.

Uttar Pradesh’s literacy rate is 69.70% according to Census 2011. The literacy rate for males is

79.20% and that for women is 59.30%. This percentage is recorded 74.04% that is below the

national average.

Top five discrticts

In terms of area (km²)

1. Lakhimpur Kheri 7680

2. Sonbhadra 6905

3. Hardoi 5986

4. Sitapur 5743

5. Allahabad 5482

In terms of percentage of Child

1. Siddharth Nagar 18.96 %

2. Shrawasti 18.95 %

3. Bahraich 18.77 %

4. Balrampur 18.37 %

5. Budaun 18.06 %

High Sex Ratio

1. Jaunpur 1024

2. Azamgarh 1019

3. Deoria 1017

4. Pratapgarh 998

5. Sultanpur 983

Top Population Growth

1. Bahraich 46.48 %

2. Ghaziabad 42.27 %

3. Gautam Buddha Nagar 37.11 %

4. Chitrakoot 29.43 %

5. Balrampur 27.72 %

High Literacy

1. Gautam Buddha Nagar 80.12 %

2. Kanpur Nagar 79.65 %

3. Auraiya 78.95 %

4. Etawah 78.41 %

5. Ghaziabad 78.07 %

Uttar Pradesh: Large cities by population as per Census 2011

As per the official census 2011 conducted by Directorate of Census Operations following is the data

of large cities of Uttar Pradesh in terms of population.

Large cities of Uttar Pradesh

Male FemaleTotal Population as per Census 2011

Lucknow (Municipal Corporation)

1,470,133

1,345,468 2,815,601

Kanpur (Municipal Corporation)

1,502,370

1,264,661 2,767,031

Ghaziabad (Municipal Corporation)

869,257 766,811 1,636,068

Agra (Municipal Corporation)

849,771 724,771 1,574,542

Meerut (Municipal Corporation)

689,567 619,456 1,309,023

Varanasi (Municipal Corporation)

636,860 564,955 1,201,815

Allahabad (Municipal Corporation)

601,363 515,731 1,117,094

Uttar Pradesh: Large Urban Agglomeration as per Census 2011

As per the official census 2011 conducted by Directorate of Census Operations, following is the data

of large Urban Agglomeration of Uttar Pradesh

Large Urban Agglomeration of Uttar Pradesh

Male Female Population

Kanpur 1,584,967 1,335,100 2,920,067

Lucknow 1,518,951 1,382,523 2,901,474

Ghaziabad 1,256,783 1,101,742 2,358,525

Agra 942,441 804,026 1,746,467

Varanasi 761,060 674,053 1,435,113

Meerut 754,857 670,051 1,424,908

Allahabad 655,734 560,985 1,216,719

Uttar Pradesh: Large District by population as per Census 2011

As per the official census 2011 conducted by Directorate of Census Operations, following is the data

of large districts of Uttar Pradesh by population.

Largest District by

Population in Uttar

Pradesh

Male Female Population

Allahabad 3,131,8072,822,58

45,954,391

Moradabad 2,503,1862,268,82

04,772,006

Ghaziabad 2,488,8342,192,81

14,681,645

Azamgarh 2,285,0042,328,90

94,613,913

Lucknow 2,394,4762,195,36

24,589,838

Kanpur Nagar 2,459,8062,121,46

24,581,268

Jaunpur 2,220,4652,273,73

94,494,204

Sitapur 2,375,2642,108,72

84,483,992

Bareilly 2,357,6652,090,69

44,448,359

Gorakhpur 2,277,7772,163,11

84,440,895

Agra 2,364,9532,053,84

44,418,797

Muzaffarnagar 2,193,4341,950,07

84,143,512

Hardoi 2,191,4421,901,40

34,092,845

Kheri 2,123,1871,898,05

64,021,243

Sultanpur 1,914,5861,882,53

13,797,117

Bijnor 1,921,2151,761,49

83,682,713

Budaun 1,967,7591,714,13

73,681,896

Varanasi 1,921,8571,754,98

43,676,841

Aligarh 1,951,9961,721,89

33,673,889

Ghazipur 1,855,0751,765,19

33,620,268

Kushinagar 1,818,0551,746,48

93,564,544

Bulandshahar 1,845,2601,653,91

13,499,171

Bahraich 1,843,8841,643,84

73,487,731

Saharanpur 1,834,1061,632,27

63,466,382

Meerut 1,825,7431,617,94

63,443,689

Gonda 1,787,1461,646,77

33,433,919

Rae Bareli 1,752,5421,653,01

73,405,559

Barabanki 1,707,0731,553,62

63,260,699

Ballia 1,672,9021,566,87

23,239,774

Pratapgarh 1,606,0851,603,05

63,209,141

Unnao 1,630,0871,478,28

03,108,367

Deoria 1,537,4361,563,51

03,100,946

Shahjahanpur 1,606,4031,400,13

53,006,538

Maharajganj 1,381,7541,302,94

92,684,703

Fatehpur 1,384,7221,248,01

12,632,733

Siddharth Nagar 1,295,0951,264,20

22,559,297

Mathura 1,367,1251,180,05

92,547,184

Firozabad 1,332,0461,166,11

02,498,156

Mirzapur 1,312,3021,184,66

82,496,970

Faizabad 1,259,6281,211,36

82,470,996

Basti 1,255,2721,209,19

22,464,464

Ambedkar Nagar 1,212,4101,185,47

82,397,888

Rampur 1,223,8891,111,93

02,335,819

Mau 1,114,7091,091,25

92,205,968

Balrampur 1,114,7211,033,94

42,148,665

Pilibhit 1,072,002 959,005 2,031,007

Jhansi 1,057,436 941,167 1,998,603

Chandauli 1,017,905 934,851 1,952,756

Farrukhabad 1,006,240 878,964 1,885,204

Mainpuri 993,377 875,152 1,868,529

Sonbhadra 971,344 891,215 1,862,559

Jyotiba Phule Nagar 963,449 876,772 1,840,221

Banda 965,876 833,534 1,799,410

Ramabai Nagar 963,255 832,929 1,796,184

Etah 947,339 827,141 1,774,480

Sant Kabir Nagar 869,656 845,527 1,715,183

Jalaun 906,092 783,882 1,689,974

Kannauj 881,776 774,840 1,656,616

Gautam Buddha Nagar 890,214 757,901 1,648,115

Kaushambi 838,485 761,111 1,599,596

Etawah 845,856 735,954 1,581,810

Sant Ravidas Nagar 807,099 771,114 1,578,213

Mahamaya Nagar 836,127 728,581 1,564,708

Kanshiram Nagar 764,165 672,554 1,436,719

Auraiya 740,040 639,505 1,379,545

Baghpat 700,070 602,978 1,303,048

Lalitpur 641,011 580,581 1,221,592

Shrawasti 593,897 523,464 1,117,361

Hamirpur 593,537 510,748 1,104,285

Uttar Pradesh Urban Population as per Census 2011

As per the census 2011, out of the entire population of the state, Uttar Pradesh, 22.27% people

reside in urban areas. 44,495,063 people out of the total population live in urban area in which the

number of males is 23,487,515 and females are 21,007,548. In last 10years, the urban population

has incremented by 22.27 percent.

In Urban areas, the sex ratio was 894 females per 1000 males. For children in the age between 0 to

6 years, the data revealed at 885 girls per 1000 boys. The total number of children between 0-6

years living in urban areas was 5,750,748. 12.92 % were children (0-6) of the total population in

urban areas. For urban areas in Uttar Pradesh, the average Literacy rate was 75.14%. It males

were 80.45% literate and females at 69.22%. In Uttar Pradesh, total literates in urban region were

29,112,875.

Districts of Uttar Pradesh with Highest Urban Population

1. Ghaziabad 3,162,547

2. Lucknow 3,038,996

3. Kanpur Nagar 3,015,645

4. Agra 2,024,195

5. Meerut 1,759,182

Districts of Uttar Pradesh with Lowest Urban Population

1. Shrawasti 38,649

2. Chitrakoot 96,332

3. Kaushambi 124,456

4. Sant Kabir Nagar 128,531

5. Maharajganj 134,730

Uttar Pradesh Rural Population as per Census 2011

Out of the entire population of the state, Uttar Pradesh, 77.73% people reside in rural areas as per

Census 2011. 155,317,278 people out of the total population live in rural area in which the number of

males is 80,992,995 and females are 74,324,283.

In rural areas, the female sex ratio was 918 females per 1000 males. The total number of children

between 0-6 years living in urban areas was 25,040,583. In rural areas, the males and female

literacy rate were 76.33 % and 56.65 % respectively. Average literacy rate in rural areas was

65.46%; however the total literates were 85,284,680.

Top 5 Districts of Uttar Pradesh having highest Rural population

1. Allahabad 4,481,518

2. Azamgarh 4,220,512

3. Jaunpur 4,147,624

4. Sitapur 3,953,208

5. Gorakhpur 3,604,766

Bottom 5 Districts of Uttar Pradesh having lowest Rural population

1. Mahoba 690,577

2. Hamirpur 894,437

3. Baghpat 1,028,023

4. Lalitpur 1,046,214

5. Shrawasti 1,078,712

Uttar Pradesh: Density as per Census 2011

The entire vicinity (area) of Uttar Pradesh is 240,928 sq. km as per Census 2011. The density of the

state is 829 per sq km. It is comparatively higher than national average, which is 382 per sq km.

In the year 2001, the density of the Uttar Pradesh state was 690 per sq km. However, the nation

average in 2001 was 324 kilometer square.

High Density cities of Uttar Pradesh as per Census 2011

1. Ghaziabad 3971

2. Varanasi 2395

3. Lucknow 1816

4. Sant Ravidas Nagar 1555

5. Kanpur Nagar 1452

Uttar Pradesh: Population as per Census 2011

The population of Uttar Pradesh was 19.98 Crores as per Census 2011. As per the information,

there is an increase from the figure of 16.62 Crore in census 2001. The total population of the state

was is 199,812,341 as per the Census 2011. Out of which 104,480,510 were males and 95,331,831

were females.

As compared to the population in 2001, the total population was 166,197,921. The male population

in 2001 was 87,565,369 while the female population was 78,632,552. The growth in this decade in

the total population was 20.23 %. However the population growth in the previous decade was 25.80

%.

Uttar Pradesh: Census 2011 and Census 2001 comparisionDescription 2011 2001

Approximate Population 19.98 Crores 16.62 Crore

Actual Population 199,812,341 166,197,921

Male 104,480,510 87,565,369

Female 95,331,831 78,632,552

Population Growth 20.23% 25.80%

Percantage of total Population 16.50% 16.16%

Sex Ratio 912 898

Child Sex Ratio 902 942

Density/km2 829 690

Density/mi2 2,148 1,787

Area km2 240,928 240,928

Area mi2 93,023 93,023

Total Child Population (0-6 Age) 30,791,331 31,624,628

Male Population (0-6 Age) 16,185,581 16,509,033

Female Population (0-6 Age) 14,605,750 15,115,595

Literacy 67.68 % 56.27 %

Male Literacy 77.28 % 67.30 %

Female Literacy 51.36 % 43.00 %

Total Literate 114,397,555 75,719,284

Male Literate 68,234,964 48,901,413

Female Literate 46,162,591 26,817,871

Uttar Pradesh

Documents

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himachal pradesh

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