Finally, it all came down to local administrative issues. Religious polarisations did not work, the Bajrang Dal and Bajrangbali issue did not work, neither did the hijab issue or the number of times the Congress has given gali to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. What mattered were price rise, corruption and incompetence of the Basavaraj Bommai led BJP government. The Indian National Congress formed government with 135 seats, with the BJP lagging far behind on 66 seats. The so-called king makers, the joker in the pack, JDS, was barely found in the thick of things, languishing at 19 seats.
The Congress victory was massive, a record in seats and vote share. This ws the best in 30 years. Congress’ tally of 135 seats is 55 more than in 2018 and the vote share was 42.88 per cent. In 1999 the party won 132 seats and had a vote share of 40.84 per cent. In 1989, it won 178 seats with a vote share of 43.76 per cent.
The BJP’s 66 were with a 36 per cent vote share, and HD Kumaraswamy’s Janata Dal-Secular won 19 seats with a vote share of 13.29 per cent.
Frankly, Siddaramaiah, the chief minister designate party’s state unit president D K Shivakumar was, till the time of going to press, to become his deputy – had expected around 120 or a few more seats. TYhis mandate exceeds the party’s expectations and completely devastated the BJP’s hopes.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said: “This victory belongs to the people of the state. They decided and chose. That is why we got 136 seats – huge after 36 years… It is a big victory… We will respect the mandate and uphold people’s belief in us. We will implement all the welfare schemes we have announced in our manifesto.”
Senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala, who was in charge of affairs in the state, said: “Karnataka has given a new mantra to save democracy. It is a pathway to save democracy and Constitution across India. Prime Minister said ‘Congress Mukt Bharat’ but the people of Karnataka ensured that ‘BJP Mukt South India’.”
The issues that Congress dealt with were mostly hyper local, with the basic needs of the people of the state being uppermost in the party’s campaign. The BJP, on the other hand, brought in super heavyweights from Delhi, including Prime Minster Narendra Modi and dhome minister Amit Shah, so cite a few, and tried to upgrade the eolection pitch as a Modi-Rahul Gandhi issue, specifically, because Rahul Ganshi’s Vharat Jodo Yatra did cross through a few areas of Karnataka.
The BJP also caught on to Siddharamaiah’s claim of wanting to ban the Bajrang Dal as a slight on Lord Bajrangbali, a claim that found no takers in the state. This was an issue that could have dented the Congress pitch, but did not, because people were possibly worried sick of the deficiencies of the BJP government and the corruption.
As for the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Kharge said: “We have won almost 99 per cent of the seats in the route in which Rahul Gandhi walked.”
While it is being said by experts that there is not connection, the Congress still sees this as a starting point to the Congress’ 2024 general election campaign. There are more state assembly elections slated for later this year, and this victory might affect those too. The states include key states such as, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Telangana.
Why this victory is important for Congress
In 2013, when the Congress had won 122 seats to form government, it was up against a beleaguered BJP without a prominent national face. Moreover, in 2013, the BJP’s social coalition comprising Lingayats, ST Nayakas, and Dalits had broken after its tallest leader B.S. Yediyurappa and Adivasi face B. Sriramulu temporarily exited the party because of internal differences.
In 2023, however, both Yediyurappa and Sriramulu were among the star campaigners of the saffron party. This year, the BJP’s fame and fortunes are at its peak, so is its famed election campaign machinery. To defeat such a formidable campaign machinery is a task in itself.
Congress found the right nerves to pinch. It ran an energetic campaign that focused on material issues of people, like price rise, unemployment, and an alleged surge in corruption in Bommai’s term.
Congress’s campaign was also aided by a collective effort on the part of its leadership. While D.K. Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah resolved their differences – even if momentarily – central leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra spent significant time holding small rallies and events to connect with voters.
To call it just an anti incumbency vote would be a misnomer.
The party’s backend was also on the ball and mounted an effective social media campaign, spinning a political narrative around welfare and inclusive development. The credit for this should also go to planning and year-long efforts by Surjewala, AICC general secretary (organisation) K.C. Venugopal and campaign manager Sunil Kanugolu.
By the time the elections came, the Congress had already emerged as the only credible challenger to the BJP’s alleged misrule. In fact, the clarity with which people voted for the Congress can be seen in Janata Dal (Secular)’s rout outside its sphere of influence. In the past elections, JD(S) candidates in northern Karnataka – mostly rebels from the two national parties – undercut the Congress to hand BJP an advantage in many seats. However, this time around, most contests in northern and central Karnataka turned out to be bi-polar between the BJP and the Congress, with the latter benefitting singularly from the anti-incumbency on the ground.
The Congress retained its stronghold Kalyana Karnataka, while it wrested multiple seats from the BJP in the saffron party’s stronghold Kittur Karnataka and central Karnataka. At the same time, the Congress emerged as the biggest party in the JD(S)’s bastion Old Mysore region.
The Vokkaliga factor
Pre-poll, the main issue was supposed to be securing the Lingayat vote. In the end, though, it was the Vokkaligas who tipped the scales in Congress’ favour.
JD(S) chief and former prime minister H.D. Devegowda is considered the tallest leader among the Vokkaligas, and kept his party in good stead in the areas where the community is in significant numbers because of such an emotional connection. However, the community appears to have shown their anguish against the increasing dominance of one family in the JD(S). With the 91-year-old Deve Gowda largely out of action, his son H.D. Kumaraswamy has alienated a large number of senior leaders, and at the same time tightened his family’s grip on the party.
Honda Cars India Ltd. (HCIL), leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, today announced that its upcoming All New SUV will be named Honda Elevate. Developed as a global model, the All New Elevate is Honda’s brand new mid-size SUV which had its World Premiere in India on May 5.
Honda has finally opened up about its upcoming SUV in India. It is going to be called Elevate and it’ll belong to the mid-size SUV segment. The car is already doing its final rounds of road testing and now its first teaser photos are also out. Going by the spied-on test mules unit now; we suspect it’ll look more or less like a mix of the HR-V & the new WR-V sold internationally. The design of it will be a boxy shape but with elements like a big front grille, LED lights, etc. Also, it is rumoured that Elevate is based on the City 5th-gen platform. This means it’ll get a roomy interior space and the latest features as well.
Honda Elevate has been developed as a new global model in Honda’s line-up to cater to the robust demand for SUVs world-wide. The new model incorporates people’s lifestyle requirements and their expectations for Honda’s New SUV. India will be the first market to launch the Honda Elevate.
Price and competition
The upcoming Honda Elevate will compete in the crowded mid-size SUV segment and will directly rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, etc. In terms of pricing, one can expect the Honda Elevate to cost somewhere between Rs 10 lakh to Rs 18 lakh, ex-showroom.
Colours
Typhoon Silver
Polar White
Red Mulberry
Lava Orange
Phantom Black
Titan Grey
Deep Forest
FEATURES
Exterior The Honda Elevate has been spotted several times on Indian roads during testing. The car has been designed on the platform of the company’s popular sedan 5th Generation Honda City. Its length can be between 4.2 to 4.3 meters. The new Honda SUV will see design elements of the company’s CR-V and HR-V sold in the global market.
It will come with a large front grille, flanked by sharp LED daytime running lamps, a long bonnet and LED headlamps. There will be an HR-V-like side profile with an upright stance and tapered roofline. With this, 16-inch SUV multi-spoke alloy wheels can be seen.
Interior The interior of the Honda Elevate SUV is yet to be revealed, but the recent spy shots show a large digital display that will act as the central touchscreen for the infotainment system. It is also expected that the driver display in the car will also be digital.
It is expected that LED DRL, LED lights, sunroof, ambient lighting, steering mounted controls, 10.25-inch infotainment system, Apple Car Play, Android Auto, push button start, keyless entry, wireless charger, ABS, EBD, hill start assist, TPMS, airbags, 1.5L engine along with many more features could be offered.
Four-legged design: The Hyundai Elevate is a concept vehicle with a unique design that includes four extendable legs, allowing it to walk and climb over various obstacles.
Electric powertrain: The vehicle is powered by an electric drivetrain, which allows it to operate quietly and produce zero emissions.
Modular design: The Elevate’s modular design allows for easy customization and adaptation to various types of terrain and situations. The vehicle can be fitted with different types of bodies, such as a rescue vehicle, delivery van, or mobile clinic.
Autonomous capabilities: The Hyundai Elevate is designed to operate autonomously, allowing it to navigate challenging terrain and environments without a human driver.
Advanced sensors: The vehicle is equipped with advanced sensors, such as LiDAR and cameras, to detect obstacles and map out its surroundings.
Other features:
Honda will fit the latest features on it like a big sunroof, digital cockpit, 360-degree parking camera, & even adaptive cruise control. Honda might also offer Honda Sense ADAS on its top specs. Under the bonnet, it is suspected to get a single 1.5-lt Honday City-sourced petrol engine. This engine might not feature the strong hybrid powertrain like the City but we can expect mild-hybrid tech for sure. Honda will offer it with options of manual as well as CVT automatic gearbox.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is an upcoming Marvel Studios film. The film is set to be directed by James Gunn, who also directed the previous two Guardians of the Galaxy films.
The plot details for the film have not been officially announced, but it is expected to continue the story of the Guardians as they explore the cosmos and battle cosmic threats. The film is also expected to explore the backstory of some of the characters, particularly Rocket and Gamora.
The main cast of the previous films, including Chris Pratt as Star-Lord, Zoe Saldana as Gamora, Dave Bautista as Drax, Vin Diesel as Groot, and Bradley Cooper as Rocket, are all expected to return for the third film.
The film’s story picks up after Gamora’s indomitable brother, Thanos, is destroyed. Gamora is ready to stay with the Guardians after dealing with her former villainous brother. The story also shows the growing relationship between her and Peter Quill/Star-Lord.
In Marvel Studios “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” our beloved band of misfits are looking a bit different these days. Peter Quill, still reeling from the loss of Gamora, must rally his team around him to defend the universe along with protecting one of their own. A mission that, if not completed successfully, could quite possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them.
One of the main themes of the film is expected to be the search for Gamora, who disappeared at the end of Avengers: Endgame. The Gamora that appeared in that movie was actually from an earlier timeline, and the current timeline version of Gamora is still missing. This could lead the Guardians on a quest to find her and bring her back into the fold.
Another storyline that has been teased is the backstory of Rocket, which James Gunn has said will be a significant part of the film. It is expected that we will learn more about Rocket’s creation and his past, and this could potentially tie into the overarching story of the Guardians.
There have also been rumors that the film will introduce Adam Warlock, a powerful character from the Marvel comics who was teased in a post-credits scene in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. It is unclear how he will fit into the story, but he could potentially serve as a new villain or ally for the Guardians.
Overall, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is expected to continue the cosmic adventures of the Guardians and explore the characters’ relationships and histories in more depth.
Pre-Review:
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3″ is an upcoming American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics superhero team of the same name, produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. The movie is directed by James Gunn, who directed the first two “Guardians of the Galaxy” movies, and is set to be released on May 5, 2023.
The movie will continue the story of the Guardians of the Galaxy team, including Peter Quill/Star-Lord (played by Chris Pratt), Gamora (played by Zoe Saldana), Drax the Destroyer (played by Dave Bautista), Rocket (voiced by Bradley Cooper), and Groot (voiced by Vin Diesel). The movie will also introduce new characters, such as Adam Warlock (played by Will Poulter) and Nova (played by either Richard Rider or Sam Alexander).
The movie will explore the origins of Rocket and delve deeper into the relationship between Gamora and her adopted father, Thanos. The movie is also expected to have a significant impact on the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s future, as it will be the first Marvel movie to be released after the events of “Avengers: Endgame”.
Overall, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” is highly anticipated by fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and we can expect a thrilling and entertaining adventure from James Gunn and the Guardians team.
In Marvel Studios “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” our beloved band of misfits are looking a bit different these days. Peter Quill, still reeling from the loss of Gamora, must rally his team around him to defend the universe along with protecting one of their own. A mission that, if not completed successfully, could quite possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them.
Production
Development
In early June 2022, Daniela Melchior was revealed to have a small role in the film, after previously starring in The Suicide Squad. Debicki was also confirmed to be reprising her role as Ayesha, while Maria Bakalova and Nico Santos were also revealed to be appearing in the film. In July, Iwuji and Bakalova were revealed to be portraying the High Evolutionary and Cosmo the Spacedog, respectively. Cosmo was physically portrayed by dog actor Fred in the first two Guardians films, and Slate in the Holiday Special and Vol. 3.
The following month, Michael Rosenbaum revealed that he had reprised his role as Martinex from Vol. 2 in the film. In October 2022, it was revealed that Bakalova would portray Cosmo in the Holiday Special ahead of her role in Vol. 3. In February 2023, Asim Chaudhry revealed he would appear in the film in an undisclosed role. In April 2023, Linda Cardellini was revealed to be voicing Lylla; she previously appeared in multiple MCU projects as Laura Barton, and starred as Velma Dinkley in the Gunn-written films Scooby-Doo (2002) and Scooby-Doo: Monsters Unleashed (2004).Two days of reshoots occurred.In late April, Tara Strong revealed that she was cast in an undisclosed role.
The visual effects were provided by Framestore, Weta FX, Sony Pictures ImageWorks, Industrial Light & Magic, Rodeo FX, Rise FX, Crafty Apes, BUF, Lola VFX, Perception, and Compuhire.[Stephane Ceretti returns from the first film to serve as the visual effects supervisor, while Fred Raskin returns from the first two films to serve as the editor, alongside Greg D’Auria, who returns from the Holiday Special.
Filming
Marvel Studios often uses Pinewood Atlanta Studios in Fayetteville, Georgia, USA as a base for filming their movies. Other previous filming locations for Marvel movies have included the United Kingdom, Australia, and South Korea.
It is also possible that “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” will use a combination of real-world locations and CGI to create the fantastical settings seen in the film. Budget The full budget for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is reported to be about $250 million. The first Guardians of the Galaxy boasted a net budget of $170 million. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 came in only a bit more expensive at $200 million.
Name of movie: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Release: (May 5) At theatres
Star cast: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Sean Gunn, Chukwudi Iwuji, Will Poulter, Elizabeth Debicki, Maria Bakalova, Sylvester Stallone.
Director: James Gunn
Producer: Kevin Feige
· Writer: James Gunn
·Music: John Murphy
Production House : Walt Disney Studios, Motion Pictures.
We all know now how the Karnataka elections went and how the Indian National Congress has not only been given a fresh lease of life, but a boost that even the party veterans had not dreamed about. The victory margin, the number of seats and the vote percentage that the Congress got in Karnataka, in the face of a thunderous campaign of the BJP, is quite impressive, to be modest, and extraordinary, to be fair.
The big takeaway from this is that the double-engine sarkar theory of the BJP might not work in every state. Also, campaigns by BJP super heavyweights, such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself and home minister Amit Shah, too may not have much sway in certain states. It was evident in West Bengal some time back, it was evident in Himachal Pradesh, now in Karnataka.
Also, it is time – against the backdrop of the Karnataka result – to look at the assembly elections that are scheduled this year, before the country goes into the general elections next year.
The states coming up for elections are: Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Telangana, possibly in that order.
Of these Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Telangana are critical for the general picture that could emerge around the country before the general elections. It is not the number of seats that will be crucial, though that is an important number, but these results will reflect upon the peoples’ minds before they vote at the main election circus.
A lot has been said, for example in Karnataka, that the people have clear divisions when voting for the state and voting for the country. It was seen that the people of Karnataka, as of now, would still vote for the BJP in the general elections. This is a sentiment that the Congress has to take seriously. There is no time for the Grand Old Party to rest on its laurels. There is a lot of work to do.
As for the BJP, it is time for some serious introspection. What went wrong in Karnataka? How can that be corrected? These are serious issues, because another major loss for the BJP just might have the people thinking differently as who they would vote for in 2024.
Crab Masala is a delicious spicy Goan style crab preparation. Crabs are cooked in a spicy curry made from onion and tomato in a spicy coconut-based curry. Serve this with rice, rotis or bread. The dish is known for its spicy and tangy flavours, and it is usually served with steamed rice or bread.
The main ingredient of the dish is crab, which is cooked in a spicy masala made with a combination of various spices, onion, tomato, and tamarind pulp. The dish gets its unique flavour from the use of Goan red chilli powder, which is made from a specific variety of chilli peppers grown in the state.
To make Goan crab masala, the crab is first cleaned and chopped into pieces. The masala is then prepared by sautéing onions, ginger-garlic paste, and green chillies in oil until the onions are translucent. Chopped tomatoes are added next, and the mixture is cooked until the tomatoes are soft and mushy. A combination of spices like turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala powder is added to the masala and cooked for a few minutes.
Once the masala is ready, the chopped crabs are added to it along with tamarind pulp and salt. The mixture is then cooked covered until the crabs are fully cooked and the masala has blended well with the crab. Water can be added to adjust the consistency of the gravy.
Spicy crab masala is one of the delicious Indian crab recipes. Different Indian spices like coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds (methi), black peppercorns, cloves and dry red chillies are roasted along with grated coconut and ground together. This is then made into a thick, smooth gravy. Onion and tomatoes are sauteed, then the gravy is mixed and simmered. Finally, marinated crabs are added and simmered till the crabs are cooked.
History
The history of Goan Crab Masala is closely tied to the history of Goa, a coastal state in western India. Goa was a Portuguese colony for over 450 years, and the Portuguese influence on the state’s cuisine is evident even today.
Seafood has always been an important part of Goan cuisine, and the use of spices is a hallmark of the region’s culinary traditions. The masala used in Goan crab masala, with its blend of spices and tangy tamarind pulp, is a reflection of the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Crab was likely added to the dish much later, once it became popular as a seafood delicacy in the region. Today, Goan crab masala is a popular dish served in many Goan restaurants and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Over the years, the recipe for Goan crab masala has evolved, with variations introduced by different cooks and families. However, the basic ingredients and flavours have remained consistent, making it a much-loved dish across generations.
Overall, Goan crab masala is a testament to the rich history and culture of Goa, and its unique blend of flavours and spices is a reminder of the region’s diverse culinary traditions.
Recipe
For the curry
Coconut: Freshly grated coconut is used in making this delicious crab recipe. You can also use coconut milk. Just roast the spices and grind them. Add them to coconut milk and use it to make crab curry in coconut milk. Vegetables: Onion and tomato are the vegetables used in making this delicious Goan crab recipe. I have used red onion in this recipe. Garlic: 5 garlic pods or 1 tablespoon minced garlic is used in this recipe for flavour. Spices: Coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds black peppercorns, cloves, dry red chillies and tamarind are the spices used in this recipe. They are roasted and ground before adding it to the curry. Garam masala: Little bit of garam masala can be added to the recipe. This is an optional ingredient as we have added powdered whole spices.
Prep Time : 10 mins Cook Time :25 mins
Ingredients
For marinating the crabs:
-1 teaspoon red chili powder -1 teaspoon turmeric powder -1/4 teaspoon salt -2 crabs
For the curry:
-1 cup grated coconut -1 medium sized onion -1 medium sized tomato -5 garlic pods -1 teaspoon coriander seeds -1/4 teaspoon fenugreek seeds -5 black peppercorns -2 cloves -3 dry red chillies -1- inch piece of tamarind -1 teaspoon garam masala -Salt to taste
HOW TO MAKE
Cut and wash the crabs and marinate with the masala meant for marination and keep aside for 30 minutes
For the curry: -In a kadai/wok, fry half of the chopped onions and when they turn pinkish, add the dry masala consisting of coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds, peppercorns and cloves. Roast for 5 minutes on low heat. -Add garlic and fry till the raw smell of garlic goes away. -Add grated coconut and fry till it becomes brownish. -Add tamarind and switch off the gas/heat. -After cooling, grind this by adding 1 cup or sufficient water needed to grind it into a thick smooth gravy. -To a kadai/wok, add 1 teaspoon oil and fry chopped onions. When they turn pinkish add chopped tomato and sauté till tomatoes turn mushy. -Add the marinated crabs and fry for some time (2-3 minutes). -Pour the ground masala curry over the crabs and mix the gravy with the crabs. -Let the crabs get cooked nicely for 15 minutes in the gravy. -Adjust salt and switch off the heat.
Daman and Diu is a union territory in India, located on the west coast of the country. It consists of two separate geographical areas: the coastal town of Daman and the island of Diu, which is located about 600 km to the south.
Daman is situated on the northern edge of the state of Maharashtra, while Diu is located near the state of Gujarat. The union territory is relatively small, covering an area of just 112 square kilometres.
The region was once under Portuguese rule and has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Indian and Portuguese influences. The architecture and cuisine of the region reflect this unique mix of cultures.
Daman and Diu are popular tourist destinations, known for their beautiful beaches, historical monuments, and religious sites. Some of the popular attractions include the Fort of Moti Daman, the Church of Bom Jesus, and the Nagoa Beach in Diu.
Tourists can also enjoy a range of water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving. The region is well connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible for travellers from all over India and beyond.
With a geographical distance of almost 650 to 700 km in all, Daman and Diu are a part of a single Union Territory in India. Lying amid the many beaches of Maharashtra, Konkan Coast and Goa, this union territory of Daman and Diu is idyllic, tranquil and still quite unspoilt.
Daman and Diu are best for those who wish to have a relaxing holiday. A coastal paradise, anyone who visits this place is guaranteed to have a blissful vacation while enjoying the sea breeze, resting on the beach chair and enjoying the waves of the sea. Mostly a weekend getaway destination, Daman and Diu has a lot of Gujarati as well as Maharashtrian population due to the close proximity to these two states.
There is a huge influence of Portuguese culture in Daman and Diu. This is because it was under the Portuguese rule for over 450 years, which has obviously left its mark on the districts. This is one of the main reasons why tourists flock to the region a lot. It is also due to this influence that you can find a lot of stunning architecture, lip-smacking food as well as breath-taking art and craft in Daman and Diu.
Beaches & the fort
One of the main tourist attractions here is Devka Beach in Daman. It has an amusement park right beside it, which boasts of vibrantly coloured fountains, a corner especially for kids as well as a food court. For those who wish to take a swim in the cool seawater, you can head to Jampore Beach, located south of Daman.
Additionally, you can also find the St. Jerome Fort on the northern side of the Daman Ganga River. It dates back to the 17th century and has an exceptional structure and architecture which will take your breath away. Furthermore, you can find many notable Portuguese churches scattered throughout Daman and Diu.
History
Daman and Diu have a rich and varied history, dating back to ancient times. The region was under the rule of several dynasties, including the Mauryas, the Satavahanas, the Chalukyas, and the Rashtrakutas.
In the 16th century, the Portuguese arrived in the region and established a colony. They built several forts and churches, which still stand and are popular tourist attractions. The Portuguese ruled over Daman and Diu for over 450 years, until the territory was annexed by the Indian government in 1961.
After annexation, Daman and Diu became a part of the Union Territory of Goa, Daman, and Diu. In 1987, Goa was granted statehood, and Daman and Diu became a separate Union Territory.
Today, Daman and Diu are known for their unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures. The region has a diverse population, with people from various religious and ethnic backgrounds.
Tourism is a significant industry in Daman and Diu, with visitors coming to enjoy the beaches, historical monuments, and cultural attractions. The Union Territory is also known for its handicraft, including shell crafts and bamboo works, which are popular souvenirs for tourists.
PLACES TO SEE
Vanganga Lake Garden
With an area of about 7.58 hectares, Vanganga Lake Garden stretches like a mini forest, containing within its vastness a beautiful lake. Unique Japanese style bridges and a modern state of the art Signature bridge connects the central island to the main garden.
Paddle boats, restaurant and a world-class floating musical dancing fountain in the garden add to its charms. Enjoy a leisurely boating ride while watching the dancing musical fountain and feeling the cool breeze. The garden is quite popular with the filmmakers with more than 40 Hindi hit film songs shot here so far.
Ghogla Beach
Ghoghla Beach is situated in the village of Ghoghla, which is around 15 km from the main town of Diu. This beach is a popular tourist spot that has necessary facilities like food and accommodation.
Considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Diu District, this beach has a tourist complex that provides all basic amenities. Parasailing and water scooters are the two most popular adventure activities at this beach.
One of the most attractive places in Diu is the Ghoghla beach. Located in the north of Diu town with not many people, it catches the attention of the tourists who prefer to stay aloof and not with the crowd. With standard restaurants around the place along with water sports, this beach stands complete. Lesser tourists are the reason for a much cleaner Ghoghla beach compared to the other beaches in the town.
The Ghoghla beach is located on the outskirts of the city and hence not many people know about it. However, it’s an opportunity missed for them to discover a splendid new place cut away from the cacophony of the town. Clean and safe it’s a great spot for those who want to enjoy privacy and at the same time indulge in some water sports like parasailing, surfing and banana boat. The beach is well maintained and the best choice for a family holiday but sadly it’s the least explored place.
Naida Caves
Naida caves, Diu are located outside the city wall of the Diu Fort, Caves feature a big network of tunnels with square hewn steps, which is yet to be fully explored, which was constructed by the Portuguese. You can reach Naida caves in Diu through Delwada which is the nearest railway station. The place is also well connected by road.
Caves are formed as a result of different geological processes. The locals say that the Portuguese soldiers hid from the Indian Army inside the caves during operation Vijay in 1961.
Naida caves in Diu are within a short distance from the Diu town. Diu’s greatest glory is the huge fort, a sight that justifies the long trip here. The northern side of the island, facing Gujarat, is tidal marshland and saltpans while the southern coast alternates between limestone cliffs, rocky covers and sandy beaches. Diu’s Naida caves have a natural opening in the ground extending beyond the zone of light. Caves vary in shapes and sizes. Speleology is the scientific study of caves. The science incorporates the study of geology, archaeology and biology and thus ranks in special interest for earth scientists of the U.S Geological Survey.
Naida Caves, Diu have been reckoned among one of the magnificent natural attractions since prehistoric times. Productive evidence of early man’s interest has been discovered in caves dotted throughout the world.
BAPS Swaminarayan Temple
Located on River Daman Ganga banks, Swaminarayan Temple is a perfect example for architectural splendour. If you have a keen eye for architecture, just a photograph of the temple would trigger your interest to plan a trip to the site regardless of your faith. You will be amazed to find that not a piece of the structure is left without carvings. The spacious garden and the magnificent construction mesmerize visitors.
Lighthouse Beach
Lighthouse Beach is a hot favourite in the Kovalam area. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse through a spiral staircase until you reach the very summit. Here, all your exhaustion melts away as the first breeze gently cradles your face. Couples flock here to take photographs that adorn family albums for a lifetime. It is among the best vantage points to view the coast line in Southern Kerala.
The Moti Daman Fort houses two beautiful lighthouses that stand as a testament to Daman’s rich Portuguese heritage. These are popularly known as the Old Lighthouse and the New Lighthouse. While the old one was built by the Portuguese, the Indian government constructed the new lighthouse. Visitors can, however, visit only the Old Lighthouse, which is just a storey tall. A winding spiral staircase leads you to the top of the Old Lighthouse that offers a picturesque view of the vast sea. Entry to the New Lighthouse is banned due to security reasons but tourists can still admire its unique architecture. Built close to the Old Lighthouse, the New Lighthouse has a revolving tower and a 204 m diameter lantern on the top.
Diu Fort
Among the places of tourist interest, the Fort of Diu occupies a prominent position. It is an expansive and imposing structure, situated on the coast of the island. The fort commands a magnificent view of the sea. It was constructed between 1535 and 1541 AD after a defence alliance, concluded by the Bahadurshah, Sultan of Gujarat, and the Portuguese when the former was attacked by Humayun, the Mughal Emperor.
The fort is skirted by the sea on the three sides. On the Fort stands a giant structure now housing a Lighthouse. A couple of mounds of iron shells can be seen even today inside the fort. Several canons still stare menacingly from the top and some are peeping out of the holes on the walls of this gigantic structure. The main front wall is the view from the eastern Rank of Diu Fort, having five huge windows with stone galleries. A strange mist shrouds the entire fort. It is more conspicuous during winter nights when fog spreads all around, and the lighthouse gives off a misty light.
Daman Ganga riverfront
The Daman Ganga riverfront is a popular tourist destination located in the union territory of Daman in India. The Daman Ganga River is a significant river in the region that originates in the Western Ghats and flows into the Arabian Sea. The riverfront is a beautiful stretch of land that runs along the banks of the Daman Ganga River and is a perfect place for a serene and peaceful getaway.
The Daman Ganga Riverfront has been developed as a recreational and tourism hub, with well-manicured gardens, walkways, and seating areas. The riverfront also has several food stalls, cafes, and restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, making it an ideal place for a family outing or a romantic evening.
The riverfront also has a few attractions like the Daman Ganga Tourist Complex, which offers boat rides, water sports, and other fun activities for visitors. The complex also has a children’s park, a garden, and a restaurant.
Devka Beach:
Devka Beach is a popular tourist destination located in the union territory of Daman and Diu, which is located on the west coast of India. The beach is situated in the town of Nani Daman, which is part of the city of Daman.
Devka Beach is a long and clean beach with soft sand and clear blue water. It is surrounded by lush green trees and is a great place to relax and unwind. The beach offers a range of activities for tourists, such as swimming, sunbathing, and taking long walks along the shoreline.
There are also several shacks and restaurants near the beach that serve a variety of food and drinks. Tourists can enjoy local delicacies, such as seafood, along with other Indian and international cuisines.
Overall, Devka Beach is a must-visit destination for tourists who are looking for a peaceful and serene getaway. It is a great place to spend time with family and friends and soak up the natural beauty of the west coast of India.
How to reach:
By Air The nearest airport option is Surat and Mumbai.
By Train The nearest Railway station is Vapi on Western Railway.
By Road Dadra & Nagar Haveli is almost touching Mumbai – Baroda – Delhi National Highway No8 (Western Express Highway). Silvassa is about 14 Kms from Bhilad & 18 Kms from Vapi. Mumbai 180 Kms, Surat 140 km, Nasik 140 Kms and Daman 30 Kms.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Daman and Diu is from October to March, during the winter months. The weather during this time is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The skies are clear and sunny, making it an ideal time to visit the beaches and indulge in water sports.
The summer months, from April to June, can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season, from July to September, can also be humid, with occasional heavy rains. The rains can sometimes cause disruptions in travel plans, and some of the tourist attractions may be closed during this time.
However, if you are interested in experiencing the lush greenery and natural beauty of the region during the monsoons, then this can also be a good time to visit. The weather is pleasant and the landscapes are rejuvenated with greenery and waterfalls.
Overall, the winter months are the best time to visit Daman and Diu, as the weather is pleasant and there are plenty of activities to enjoy. However, if you don’t mind the heat or the occasional rains, then other times of the year can also offer a unique and enjoyable experience.
Where to stay:
The Deltin : starting price @Rs 3999/-
Located in Daman, this luxury resort offers a range of amenities, including a casino, swimming pool, spa, and several restaurants. The resort has spacious rooms with modern amenities, and is a popular choice among travellers.
The Gold Beach Resort – starting price @Rs 4550/
This beachfront resort is located in Daman and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The resort has a range of facilities, including a swimming pool, spa, and several restaurants. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, making it a popular choice among families.
The Indian National Congress has logged up an almost unprecedented lead of 136 against the BJP’s 63 by 4pm. The Bommai government has accepted defeat and the Congress is set to foist its own government.
The BJP’s leading tally came down further to 63 and JDS were way down at 20, completely out of the picture.
Now the issue will be who will be the chief minister of the state. Congress leadership, including its president Mallikarjun Kharge has clearly said that the final decision on who the chief minister would be rests with Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. The two contestants, of course, are Siddharamaiah and Shiva Kumar.
Siddharamaiah and Shiva Kumar are both wanting the MLAs’ support in the selection of the chief minister, when the Congress tradition has been to decide on the state chief from the high command.
Congress has crossed the halfway mark and seems on course to breach archrival BJP’s lone southern citadel Karnataka. In the 224-seat Karnataka assembly, a party needs to win 113 seats to form the government. The Congress has already raced ahead on 119 seats, while the BJP is leading on 72. The electoral fortunes of top leaders– Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai of the BJP, Congress heavyweights Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar and JD(S)’ HD Kumaraswamy, among many others will be decided today.
Former CM Jagadish Shettar, who quit the BJP after being denied to contest in the May 10 polls for the 224-member Assembly, was trailing in Hubballi-Dharwad Central by 2,614 votes. He was fielded there by the Congress.
Most exit polls had given an edge to the Congress over the ruling BJP, while also indicating the possibility of a hung Assembly in the state. The JD(S) is expecting for a hung verdict, which would enable it to play a role in government formation.
May 13 is International Hummus Day. We have no choice but to celebrate the intoxicatingly delicious concoction of garbanzo beans, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic – otherwise known as hummus.
The origin of hummus is cloudy and hotly contested. Though we know it originated in the Middle East, many regions around the Eastern crescent of the Mediterranean claim to be the one true originator of the delectable spread. The first real mention of hummus in a cookbook was found in 13th century Cairo, where it appears as merely a cold chickpea puree, and notably lacks lemon juice and garlic – including instead pickled lemons with oil, herbs, and spices. It still sounds pretty good to us.
Hummus remained a huge staple in the diet of many living in the Middle East, where chickpeas flourish. In fact, the word “hummus” is rooted in the Arabic word for “chickpea”! Though there is some debate over whether or not the Greeks also invented hummus, most believe that it spread between Greek and Middle Eastern traders, along with popular delicacies like baklava and stuffed grape leaves. It’s known for this reason as one of the greatest crossover foods.
The United Nations designated 12 May the International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can help end hunger, reduce poverty, protect biodiversity and the environment, and boost economic development.
Plants are essential for life on Earth. They provide us with food, oxygen, and shelter. They also play a vital role in the environment, helping to regulate the climate and prevent soil erosion. However, plants are also vulnerable to pests and diseases. These can cause significant damage to crops, leading to food shortages and economic losses.
They can also have a negative impact on the environment. International Day of Plant Health is an opportunity to learn more about plant health and the threats it faces. It is also a time to take action to protect plants and ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
