All posts by Ruturaj Vartak

Creating a Live Score Board

Many a times you may have come across a fancy “Live Score Board”, recently (as of writing) you may have seen the “Java Applet”ized score board. If you want to have a similar such app, but don’t want to get into Java and applets. You may wonder.

But there is a solution, Asynchronous Javascript HTTP Request calls, you may commonly now it AJAX, or famous as XMLHttpRequest

… and make something like
Score board screenshot

You can find working example here, Live Score Board

For your live Score Board App, you need following .

  • A Score Server, which gives scores in a specific format, ideally XML
  • A Client that requests the Server, and displays the parsed XML

We need a Server or a web Service, that will give us the requested data. We’ll use XML to output the response of the server.
We’ll structure the XML as follows

<?xml version="1.0"?>
<scores xmlns="http://www.ruturaj.net/tutorials/php">
<match elapsedtime="1.5h" round="semifinal" category="singles" sex="women">
	<player name="Hingis" serving="1">
		<set no="1">6</set>
		<set no="2">3</set>
		<set no="3">4</set>
		<gamepoints>30</gamepoints>
	</player>
	<player name="Sharapova">
		<set no="1">4</set>
		<set no="2">6</set>
		<set no="3">2</set>
		<gamepoints>15</gamepoints>
	</player>
</match>
</scores>

Assume that we have a database, which is fed continuously. Say we access the above data using the URL as.. http://www.ruturaj.net/tennis/score_server.php?round=semifinal&category=singles&sex=women&player=hingis

Here is a test score_server.php script for testing.

<?php

$array_points = array(15, 30 , 40);
$gamepoints1 = array_rand($array_points, 1);
$gamepoints2 = array_rand($array_points, 1);
$xml = '<?xml version="1.0" ?>
<scores xmlns="http://www.ruturaj.net/tutorials/php">
<match elapsedtime="1.5h" round="semifinal" category="singles" sex="women">
	<player name="Hingis" serving="1">
		<set no="1">6</set>
		<set no="2">3</set>
		<set no="3">4</set>
		<gamepoints>'.$array_points[$gamepoints1].'</gamepoints>
	</player>
	<player name="Sharapova">
		<set no="1">4</set>
		<set no="2">6</set>
		<set no="3">2</set>
		<gamepoints>'.$array_points[$gamepoints2].'</gamepoints>
	</player>
</match>
</scores>
';

header("Content-Type: text/xml");
echo ($xml);
?>

Building a Tag Cloud (logic)

Once we have the data we want, we can build the logic to make the cloud.
Here the logic is extremely simple (no wonder I’ve made a tutorial about it).

The idea is to assign a minimum font-size in “pt” to the least occured tag. In our case we have taken 8pt. Since this 8pt size is applicable to the XML tag (our example), whose tag count is 3. We need to find a multiplying factor for all the tags, that will give us their respective font sizes.

The multiplying factor should take into account, the tags count, and the total of the tag count, which in turn is the percentage of occurance for that tag. So if the factor is x, tag count is 3, tag count sum is 58 and font size is 8, the equation would be

(3 / 58) * x = 8
which gives us x as 
x = (58 / 3) * 8

Now this x has to be multiplied to the % factor of that tag,
to get it's font size value

tag[http] = (10 / 58) * ( (58 / 3) * 8 )

so lets go with PHP,

$min_val = min($tags);
$font_multiplier = ($tag_sum / $min_val) * 8;

// assign the the font sizes
foreach($tags as $key => $value) {
  $tags[$key] = ($value / $tag_sum) * $font_multiplier;
}

Now is the time to display the tags, and link it to what ever, The spacing for each tag word would be fixed I’ll keep it 15pt. Its upto your design to change it!

foreach($tags as $key=>$value) {
  echo "<span style='font-size: {$value}pt; font-family: 
        tahoma;'>$key</span><span style='font-size: 15pt; font-family: 
        tahoma;'>  </span>";
}

Building a Tag Cloud

You may have come across Del.icio.us Tags, which is commonly referered as a “Tag cloud”
tag cloud

It is extremely easy to build such a cloud, all you need to have is to have tags associated with your posts, comments, blogs, etc.

Consider you have a table of posts called POSTS, and another one of TAGS, something like below.

posts
* post_id
* tag_id
* post_content

tags
* tag_id
* tag_name

We need to get the count of tags, and the no. of times that tag has been associated. The query would be.

select a.tag_name, count(b.post_id) tag_count
from tags a, posts b
where a.tag_id = b.tag_id
group by b.tag_id
order by a.tag_name

This will give us a result like this

AJAX, 15
HTTP, 10
Web, 30
XML, 3

Let us decide a minimum font size for the tag, let us take the value of 8pt as the smallest font possible, All that remains is to calculate the font sizes.

We’ll grab the result set first and get the sum of tag count.

$tags = array();
$tag_sum = 0;
while ($row = mysql_fetch_object($res)) {
  $tags[$row->tag_name] = $row->tag_count;
  $tag_sum = $tag_sum + $row->tag_count;
}

// just make a copy of the tags array
$tags_copy = $tags;

Gwalior Other Miscellaneous Information

Madhav Rao Scindia
The name of Late Shri Madhav Rao Scindia was at the highest peak in according respect in India and foreign countries. Scindia was the only politician who knows to fly aeroplanes, drive a car, motorcycle, and railway engine. As union Railways minister from 1985 to 1988 . He was known as the ablest minister in whole of the country. During his time railway was a satisfactory and comfortable journey. Madhav Rao Scindia has been very popular minister of northern India. He was well known as president of Cricket control Board and patroniser of sports. Of the various princes of previous states Madhorao Scindia is one who maintains his popularity in masses. IN the whole of country and developed railway network, he in whole state and Gwalior town has given new development In 1980 Gwalior was ordinary city but now not only international matches are played in the cricket stadium but Scindia has made Hockey stadium also.

FAMILY TREE OF SCINDIA DYNASTY
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Rano Ji Scindia(1726-45)
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JAIPAPPA DATTO JI JYOTIBA TUKOJI MAHADJI
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MAHADJI (1761-1794)
|
DAULATRAO (1794-1827)
|
(WHO MADE GWALIOR AS CAPITAL IN 1811 OF HIS STATE)
|
JANKOJI RAO (1827-43)
|
JIVAJI RAO (1843-86)
|
MADHORAO SCINDIA(1886-1925)
|
JIVAJI RAO SCINDIA(1925-1948)
|
MADHAV RAO SCINDIA(30-09-2002)

Main Offices Of Gwalior
Gwalior is important from administration point of view. Many main administration point of view. Many main administrative offices are situated here. Narcotics Commissioner of India N. C. C. Women Training school, Accountant General MP, Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management of Govt. of India, and MP High court Bench and Institute of Hotel Management are situated at Gwalior.

Similerly about dozen offices of MP Govt. State offices are also situated in Gwlior; of them are Transport Commissioner Office, Excise Commissioner office, Local Fund Director’s office, Hd. Qr. ot Revenue Board of MP Offices of Chambal and Gwalior Division Commissioners, office of lG Police, Office of Chief Engineer of MPEB, PWD, and Irrigation Dept. are also PHE located in Gwalior.

Jiwaji University 12 Music colleges, MP Housing Board, Industrial Development Corporation, Medical College, Office of Town and Country planning Special area development, Addl. Director Industries Addl. Director Public relation, Addl director education Joint Director vaterinary, Adivasi Vikas Pradhikaran(ST DEVELOPMENT), Joint Director Agricuture, Joint Registrar Cooperative Societies Central Archaeological dept. (ASI), Defence Research, Laboratory, All India Radio Central Excise, Border Security Force Tekanpur are based in Gwalior. G. M. Telephone Dept. Dy Chief Engineer Construction Central Railway Office, Gwalior Development Corporation Land Records MP main office MP Govt. Insurance corporation, Ayurvedic college, Hemeopathic college.

Bhavbhuti – Distinguished Person
Name of Bhavbhuti is cited whenever there is talk of Rang manch (stage art) in the world. Bhavbhuti was notonly a poet of pathos but also an actor of at the stage. About 1200 to 1300 years ago Bhavbhuti through his NATAKS (dramas) gave completeness to stage art (Rangmanch)which even today is significant for those who appreciate Nataks (dramas) Although prior to Bhavbhuti kalidas etc. important poets and dramatists enriched Indian literature with their poetry and writings but Bhavbhuti in Madhya Bharat region through his plays in 7th-8th Century, did play an important role to make people of that erato enjoy dramas. This is illustrated by various proofs found in th latest archaeological evacuation.

Where did Bhavbhuti hail from? To which region from his description found in his leterature indicate? From these datas various claims have been put forward by literary people about his place of birth and area of his works; some claim him to be of the south and some of the vidharbh.

In his plays Malti Madhav and Mahavir Charit -namak while depcting his dynasty Bhavbhuti mentions that his ancestors hailed from Padampur town. His father’s name was Neelkanth and that of pitamah (grand father ) was Gopal. His mother’s name was Jatukarni. Jagadhar critic of Malti Madhav by assuming Padampur as Padmavati has written that Bhavbhuti had special love for Padmavati in the same manner as kalidas had for Ujjaini. He has emotionally and whole heartily gave aliving description of and by this important description of Padmavati if transpires that this is his birth place.

The description givern by Bhavbhuti goes a long way in deciding the geographical conditions of Padampur or Padmavati. As per Bhavbhuti the town of padmavati is surrounded by two rivers Sindhu (Sindh) and Para(Parvati). There is the sacred sangam of Sindh Parvati and Madhumati at this juncture (Sangam)there is Shiv temple from times immemorial. At a little distance there is a small river Lavna. During rainy season people to to banks of Lavna for recreation.

Bhavbhuti And Gwalior
Useful geographical features presented in MALTIMADHAV is a place of the village Pawaya -65 K. Ms. southern east of Gwalior. As regards the place of birth of Bhav Bhuti there is primary indication as Pawaya in the book of General Kanghim in his book(COINS OF MEDIAEVAL INDIA). By the sudy of the geographical description given by Bhavbhuti, General Kanighim arrived at the conclusion that padmavati mentioned in Malti Madhav is in fact Padampur and present village Pawaya is old Padmavati. Pawaya village is near to place where two rivers Sindhu(at present Sindh) and Para (Parvati) join. Madhumati river is Madhu or Mohar river and Lavna river flowing towards the north , is at present known as Nun or Lun river.

The opinion of General kanighim is coroborated by the conclusion arrived at by “Garde Sahib” observations of archaeological works of exvations. In a similar manner M. B. Lale has in his work Malti Madhav proved that present village pawaya is Padmavati the real place of birth of Bhavbhuti.

Bhavbhuti was in between the end of 7th century and mid of 8th century. Bavbhuti could not get assistance from any ruler. Rulers neglected him. That is why he started loving pathos and pains and was adjudged as the best poet ot “KARUN RAS” In his last days he was in the Darbar of Raja Yashvarman.

Plays Of Bhavbhuti
Threeworks of Bhavbhuti are available, viz Malti Madhav, Mahavir chairitam and Uttar Ram chiritam.

  • MALTI MADHAV- This is a play of 10 acts. In this Madhav s/o Devrat minister of vidharb Malti daughter of Bhurivdsu minister of Padmavaties love story is describes. In this kingaras loves and romance is at the top. There is combination of history and immaginations.
  • MAHAVIR CHIRITAM – This is a play of 7 acts . Ther is history of life of Lord Rama. In it Rama’s marriage Rama’s exile, Sita kidnapping and Rama’s enthroning have been told.
  • UTTAR RAM CHIRITAM – This play of 7 acts magnifies the importance of Bhavbhuti. In this there is story of Lord Rama’s advent of life. There are differences in description made by Bhavbhuti when it is compared with the Ramayana Bhavbhuti has by his immagination and wisdom acts described in 7facts of the occurences of Ramayana. In the end Sita is proved innocent with the result peoples suspicions are removed.

Jagirdars Of Gwalior
Late Maharaja Madhorao Scindia had divided his state in many jagirs for its efficient administration . Scindia Government and prorends etc. were given to 108 jagirdars according to their status. Jagirdars were given dresses, Palki, Chadi, Umbrela, Mono, Watch, etc. by the state. IN this regard there were clear orders writtens by late Madhorao Scindia. In 1913 Scindia Government had published a Govt. Book “Tareekh Jagirdaran” in which it was published about status, Mansab and rank of each Jagirdar in writing; which can be seen in the personal library of Shri Arjun Rao Madhorao Falke sahib in Phalkey Bazar. IN gwalior state there were 35 Sardar Sahiban in other ranks there were 64 Jagirdars and Sardars who didnot have sanad in writing . IN 3rd rank there were such 9 Jagirdars which liable in alteration in Jagirs; and which were under big Jagirdars. Amongst Jagirdars Shri Sahib was above all who was also Guru of Maharaja Scindia. With the blessing of ancestor of Mansoor Shah Data of Shri Sahib Gwalior Maharaja Mahadji Scindia could restore his state.

Shri Sahib was bestowed hundreds of villages as Jagirs in Agra, Mathura, and in the South. His income was about 1lac in per-independence period. WHen Maharaja used to call shri Sahib in his Darbar Sardar SHitole used to go to bring him and Maharaja himself used to receive him when his carriage brought him.

J. P. Gupta, Sr. Advocate
Shir J. P. Gupta was born in Gwalior and is 74 years old. He is a prominent Sr. leading advocate of Gwalior. He passed L. L. B. in 1946 and L. L. M. in 1948 and started his career as advocate in Gwalior and now has become the leading advocate of Gwalior. He is now known as legal expert in the entire country. IN Lucknow Univercity Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma was his professor of law. In M. P. Shri J. P. Gupta is well known for his successfull practiceon criminal side. He is directly connected with literacy and social organisation and giving his services free in cases of social justice. He is also deeply interested in music and in the upkeep of tombs of Gos Sahib and world fame Tansen. People of all community owe great allegiance to him.

He is an intelligent, Polished, affluent and matchless personality in the bar. He has been President of Bar in which he was unanimously elected with out contest. He had been offered post of Hon’ble Justice of High court which he declined. His memory could have even outdated computer in erstwhile young age. A day when this exemplary personality will be a great set back to the people of vacuum unfiled and there will be a great people of Gwalior.

How To Reach Gwalior
By air Indian AirLines provides regular flights. From Delhi, Bombay, Indore, and Bhopal there are daily panes to Gwalior whereas for Jabalpur and Raipur there are 3flights in a week. By Rail- Gwalior is situated on Central Railway on Delhi-Bombay and Delhi-Madras. From Agra, Delhi, Bhopal, Madras, Bombay and Banglore there are about 25 superfast trains in 24 hours. By Bus- For Gwalior there are regular buses from Agra, Mathura, Jaipur, Delhi, Lucknow, Bhopal, Chanderi, Indore, Jhansi, Khujrao, Rewa, Ujjain and Shivpuri etc. There are alsoLuxury buses from Agra, Delhi, and Bhopal etc. Taxies, Tongas, Auto riksha and Tampos ply in greater Gwalior.

Following are the distances of various cities from Gwalior
Gwalior to Agra… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 K. Ms.
Gwalior to Bhopal…. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 400 K. Ms.
Gwalior to Bombay…. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1091K. Ms.
Gwalior to Delhi… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 318 K. Ms.
Gwalior to Sanchi… . . . . . . . . . . . . . 344 K. Ms.
Gwalior to Shivpuri…. . . . . . . . . . . 108 K. Ms.
Gwalior to Khujrao… . . . . . . . . . . . . 378 K. Ms.

Gwalior’s Esteemed Ladies

Rani Kunti
Maternal Aunt of Lord Shri Krishna and glorious mother of the brave pandavs queen Kunti was born in Kotwar district. Morena which is 35 K. Ms. from Gwlior. It is a historic fact. With ups and downs of life, disciplined marching, dutiful Kunti led her life steadily and easily on the path of duty. SHe had prayed to god that all the problems of the world may befall on her. Her devoted feelings towards god are worthy of praise. Such a great and devoted woman is an asset to increase the glory of any country.

Kaknavati
It is natural to remember Suryavanshi Maharani of the historic village of Kotwar of Morena district of whose glory the artistic Kakanmath temples even today speak and attract us as a symbol of her greatness. Every year many visitors reach there to visit its praiseworthy architect. Kotwar, Kakanmath, Sinhonia, Padavli, Gohad, Devgarh, Aisah etc, the famous quiet village s of northern India nearby Gwalior are shrined in their innerself the great messages of life sketches of great men. It is only 60 K. Ms. away from Gwalior; and is only 25 K. Ms. away from Morena Hd. Qr. You just can’t be without joy after having seen it.

Damayanti
The Narwar Fort in historic old town situated speaks several messages of its achievements. of the many messages given by it one message was given by Maharani Damyanti beloved queen of famous Ruler Nal. Even during the period of adversity, bearing meseries herself like courageous Sita;by presenting vitals alike, this maharani of suryavansh with her husband, hadbeen like an idol of love and tolerance and lastly by her intelligence and skills she could notonly get her husband but also in getting glorious big Narwar state again.

Mrignayani
The name of Maharaja Man Singh of Tomar dynasty has been foremost in historic bravery, foresightedness, and guardian of art and culture. By marrying powerful Gujar girl of village Raj and giving her status of Maharani, he notonly showed the ability of adjudging quality but also set an example of progressiveness Mrignayani on becoming Maharani of Gwalior enhanced the glory of Gwalior by her great deeds. Art of Man Mandir and GujriMahal are pride of Gwalior but with the help of Mrignayani and Mansingh the magnificant development of the art of music innovated by them to whole of the country, only by remembrance the people of Gwlior feel proud of it. she was the source of inspiration to the great musicians like Tansen and Baiju Bawra. The period of 1486 to 1516of the history of Gwlior is called an everlasting period for development of art.

Gangabai
The first founder of the scindia dynasty, Madhav Rao Scindia known as Mahadji Scindia was a great soldier, stateman and foresighted rular of his period. His wife Maharani Ganga Bai whose statue and temple is in Gangapur was in forefont in playing role of diplomacy and bringing unity amongst the then rulers Maharaja, Kushwah of Jaipur and Maharana Sisodia of Udaipur who were at their toes for war and by becoming their sister and tying Rakhi achieved great success in bringing mutual good will; and while she was coming back to Gwalior from Gangapur she fell ill and passed away, it was a great loss to the country. Even today she is an inspiration for the people at large and is respected as a goddess.

Baijabai
Maharani Baija Shiba the queen of late Maharaja Daulat Rao Scindia is being remembered as famous and active maharani of Scingia dynasty. She was born in 1787 at kolahpur in the family of Tulkoji Rao Sakharam Bapu Sahib Ghade and in 1798 at the age of 11 She was married and became Maharani . Unfortunately she had to face deadly separation of her husband but she stood fast duty bound and began to direct the affairs of the state. At theage of only 16 years she had to fight an armed battle against Britishers in 1803. She herself directed the battle by riding over his horse back and carrying a spear in her hand. She won the battle and in 1805 the britishers had to enter into a treaty with her.

Ganna Begum
She was helpful to Maharaj Mahadji Scindia in his political life Ganna begum whom we remember with regards to an aristocrate race of Iran and Indian blood Ganna Begum was the queen of beauty. Her wrecked and uncared tomb is 25 K. Ms. away from Gwalior on Morena road near Noorabad. Ganna begam used to work as personal clerk of Maharaja Mahadji Scindia in disguise by bearing the name if Ganna singh and sacrificed her life. SHe notonly gave political advice but also saved the life of Maharaja from difficulties and conspiracy. By her attempts her life ended at the hands of enemies her life History is an example of patriotism. Today her tomb is lost under the darkness with noname to it; and is sufficiently in bad condition.

Gwalior’s Tourist Attractions II

Symbol Of Unity
Near the fort the stone was carved and a cave was made near the base of fort. “EN-ULLAH SHAH” a poet of Gwalior used to live in this cave. His poems were in the name of “EN”. “EN- ULLAH” was born in 1818. He passed away in 1902 at the age of 84 years. CHildhood of En-Ullah was passed in Gwalior. For sometime he went to Delhi, Rajasthan and Bundelkhand. En-Ullah was of serious nature from his childhood. Mostly he wore cap with threads on top and yellow long Kurta.

Kundliya Shali are of special significance in Hindi litetature of Tehm Girdhar Kundliya are famous. In area nearer to Gwalior Keshav das wrote certain Kundliyas in Ram Chandrika. En Sahib has maximum collection of Kundlis. En Ullah Shan used to pass his maximum time in the company of beggers, saints and literary persons. En-Ullah wrote in his Kundli about Ainanand fakir hai Paramhans Nirpan Dadi Mooch Modwate Bhasam kare Asnan Mene ek he brahm, Turf Hindy se Nayari Bhikshuk Dou din ke “EN” hamara Nam.

One day En in the company of a begger started from his house and reached Delhi on foot. Fida Hussain a literary person was influence by Saint became his disciple. He started living in Gwalior after 6 months with the permission on his Guru. En Ullah writes in his Kundlis about the greatness of his

“Jo Nr Pave aap ko ti Narayan Aap
Aap bina nar karat hai, Aap apno jaap”
Aap aapno jaap aapko pavat nahin,
jo pave par aapko to aap gusain
ek bin guru gyan ke nar bhoge jagtap.

En Ullah Shah had many Hindu and Muslim disciples in Gwalior. First of all Raja Balchander ji became the disciple of En-Ullah Shah; Gopal poets name also finds place in the disciples of En Ullah Shah. En Ullah Shah gave his dictates in form of Kundlis. Where in he has taught lesson of peace, Dharam and unity. En Ullah behaviour was alike with everyon. Without any discrimination he behaved with equal love and goodwill. Once JivajiRao Scindia Maharaja of Gwalior sent a horse and a Dushala for him. He did nor accept this and sent a “Ub kya chaihyuai sadhu ko sabhi diya bhagwan, kapde khak masan ke, kand mul phal khan. kand mul phal khan, nadi jal peevan dini, Khappar dono haath gupha rehne ko dini. Vicharan ko charon disha “En”bhog ko gyan” LITERATURE OF EN ULLAH. is primarily found in Gwalior, Datia, Jaipur, Alwar & Jodhpur, Following are the achievments of literature of En Ullah.
KUNDLY COLLECTION – On dummy of ghamgin is in Gwalior. There are about 200 pages. Size of pandulipi is 7*9″.

SELF PUBLICATION – This book was written in Jaipur; and came into being in 1902. There are 575 pages in this pandulipi. Its size is 7*9″.

TEACHINGS- In this Lord Krishna’s teachings in kurukshetra are described and there is description of Krishan – Bhakti. There are 200 Kundlis in this pandulipi and there are 67 pages. Size is 7*9″. One kundli of this granth is –

SIDHAANT SARIKA – In this granth four sufimat ciz Sahriyat, Marphat, Tarikat, and Hakikat have been explained in the light of Indian Spiritualism. There are about 100 Kundlis and Dona, Saroth chopai etc in this granth. One example is illustrated Teen haraf hai ishak ke En, kaaf aur Sheen, En badavat akal ko, Sheen Sharam le cheen, Sheen sharam le cheen, kaaf karar badayai yeh sabra ho jabhi tabhi tuk darshan payai Teen teeno haraf “En ” lete hain been.

AINANAND SAGAR- This is an incomplete granth. It contains Doha, Sarotha, chopayain. This has been called heelre in chapters(pathon) its subject is to appreciate Kavi Labhatta God’s love, and God’s prayer. There are more granths of En Ullah Shah apart from these En Ullah Shah has made adhyatmak Darshan an important subject of his poetry and the way in which he has intelligently and ably summed up in kundis is really amazing. His works for Ram and Krishan through light in Brahm. Apart from this they corelate Sufi principles with Indian adhyatamikta side by side. En Ullah Shah’s poetry proves himself as a great poet and his teaching encourage unity and amity. In the light of Kundlis it is imperative to write shodh karya on En Ullah born and brought up in Gwalior, a shodh prabandh has been written on life of “En” and his poetry by bundelkhand University which is a good begining.

Near By Chambal
There is a reference in historic grangh Mahabharat of sacred river Charanvati “CHAMBAL”, of various rivers of India, which is only 30K. Ms. away from Gwalior. Thusand years hence, man civilisation entered in the northern Ghati of this river. There are more than 30 archaeological places in Morena district situated in chambal ghati since Mahabharat era to mid era. Some beautiful Samaraks standing on these places are cultural Herritage of this country. They are highlighting history and with the historic background abundant pleasure is realised in seeing them.

Rock Pictures Of Pahargarh
50 K. Ms. away from Morena dist. Hd. Qr. /is Pahargarh and 120 K. Ms. east -south are found 86 caves which can be of the same period as that of Bhim Batika caves found near Bhojpur. Man used to get Shelter in the begining of civilisation. That period has been adjudged as ten thousand years before Chirst. On seeing the rockpainting of men and women dance, . . . . .. this becomes amply clear that in the prehistoric period human art and love had its germination; and for _expression they could find fast colours.

Kutwar – Old Town
Oldest town Kuntalpur(today’sKutwar) of Chambal ghati is like Hastinapur, Bajgiri(Rajgarh) and chedi, is a Mahabharat times spot. It has in its innerside hidden many answers to many questions of Indian history. As per Mahabharat, Shrimadbhagwat, Vishnupuran, Harivansh Puran historic events ans old political geographic gist of all granths is that nearby Jamuna and Upper area of Chambal was part of state of Shursen. Pratha one of the daughters of Raja Shursen whom he has given for adoption to his friend Kunti-Bhoj. Pratha has Sahodar brother Vasudev. She being brought up by Kunti Bhoj used to be called as Kunti. Raja Kunti Bhoj’state was in the south of chambal. Kunti bhoj was killed at the hand of Dronacharya in Mahabharat. This state was famous as KUNTIKHESHETRA and touched Danti-durg (Datia). For thousands of years one place behind fort in Kotwar is known as Karankhar;from where Kunti had kept her newly born in Manjusha and swayed in river Ashav(AASSAN). This Manjusha reached Chambal through Aasan. One spot is famous as Suryavah where on invitation of Kunti God Sun had reached. On a high hilock on the bank of Ashav river ther are horse’s foot prints from the times immemorable to illustrate this strange occurence. One temple has been ruined reconstructed near this place in the past. It is thought to be SUN-TEMPLE. SIHONIYA CAPITAL OF KACHVAHAS About 8th Century in the downfull era of Kanoj Samrajya Kachapghat(Kachvah)state was established in Chambal Ghati. Its first capital was KUTWAR and second was SUHANIA. IN 977 the capital was brought at Gwalior fort after removing the Pratihar power of Kanoj. 155 feet high Shiv Mandir of Kachwaha era like Khujrao’s huge Rath Mandir is a big SAMARAK of northern India. About this temple it is inscribed on SAS BAHU temple :- ADBHUT SINHPANIYAI NAGRE YEN KARTIKAA KRITI SANTAMBH HAVE BHAANTI PRASAD PARVATOPATE

KAKANMATH is the famous name abscribed for the pyramid type structure in the area of 2 K. Ms. are God Shantinath, Kuhthanath and Ahannath which are 16′, 8′-8’high statues and 20 feet high statue of HANUMAN JI standing on a chabutra of a raised platform of a Ruinned temple, Ambika Mandir and Kund. Prastarstambh and Nandi lying in a field are worth seeing. Shal Bhanjika, Sakhalat vasna Nayaka, Kamniyai, Apsarain, Gujri-Mahal archaeological museum are attributing grace to Gwalior.

Son Chiraya Abhyaranya
In northern M. P. in north -western Distirct of Shivpuri Karera abhyaranya is being estanlished speedly near town Karera. For Miltiplication of attractive bird”Son Chiraya” under great Indian Bustard it was established in 1981. The area of this Abhayaranyai is 202 K. Ms. which is 55 K. Ms. from Jhansi, 60K. Ms. from Shivpuri, 135K. Ms. from Gwalior and 73 K. Ms. from Orcha. This is the only Abhyaranyai of India. In between Mahur and Sindh river this is the only big area in the country which constitutes of either govt. land or private land. From the print of existence, vegetation and landscape this is quite befitting. This breed is always present to greet the visitors at times alone, at times with pertner and at times in flock in the Abhyaranyai area. Asper 1992 counting of forest animals and birds the figure of Son Chiraya is 18. This bird is a little shorter with long neck and black KALGE on its head. The colour of the feathers is of the colour of meat with blace and brown stripes on them; with strong long brown legs and white lower portion. Male is comperatively heavy and more beautiful. There is a long pounch on the neck of the male which is capable of filling air in it and by throwing it out forcefully the male makes the atmosphere very melodious. This pounch comes into being when this bird lives alone. The male by various designs and by his noise (Gunjan) attracts the female and there by alarms other males of his presence so that they do not enter his territory.

Another special feature of this Abhyaranya is the presence of black bucks. At the time of inception of this Abhyaranya in 1981 their number was 100-150 which rose to 3005 as per counting of 1992. Flocks of black bucks can be seen in hundreds grazing in the Abhyaranya. This four legged animals because of gait race and jumps spach good looking in the universe. Apart from black bucks chinks, foxes and.. . etc. Jungle animals are found in plenty.

Another attraction of this Abhyaranya is Dihayals Jheel where 97 breeds of acquitic birds have beeb identified. In winter season birds in thousands come from far and wide and remain here till February-March. Of them Saras (Crane) Surkhab(Br… Duck), Seenkh par (pintail), Hans (B… ) Geese(j. thok)(Pantid stork ), Bagula(lg… )(Darter), (Damociyal Crane), Aari(koot), Chamcha(Spoonwil) Hargila (Adjufant Stark), Kunj(Samocigal crane etc. are prominent.

On the study by Bombay, Natural History Socirty for birds as per their point of veiw After Bharatpur pakshi vihar Dihayela Jheel is the second best pakshi vihar. In the country this is.. . . . Abharayani of its kind which is appropriate for Son Chiraya, and black bucks which offers mixed sight seeing.

Because of proper environment and security the number of black buks has increased 21/2 to 3 times than the desired number in the Abhyaranya area with the result the black bucks are proving harmful to the crops of the farmers there is dissatisfaction amongst the for sometime. For tiding over this problem to shift black bucks in some other area talks between specialists and government are in progress. This is a solitary effort to safe guard black bucks. Decisive Solution of this problem has not been found so far. To over come this problem for the last two years cultivations has been undertaken for blackbucks in Abhyaraiyai area by the government, the farmers have got relief to sufficient extent; because the black bucks are centred around the cultivated land. In the morning and evening black bycks can be seen in great number while grazing in the fields that have been cultivated.

When these black bucks will become accustomed to this ara, they will be transferred to some other place with some special technique; which will be put into action after through discussion. Plantation of blace bucks elsewhere is unique experiment in this Abhyaranya first of all in the world.

This Abhyaranya is open thoughout except rainy season but December fo February is the best period to tour here. During this period thousands of birds are visible in the Dihayala Jheel when black bucks and son chiraya are also visible in this are a enjoying sunshine. The best time for touring the abhyaranya is 2-3 hours after sunrise and 2 hours before sunset.

Datia Palace
Datia town is situated 75 K. Ms. away from Gwalior, the peculiarity of the old palace is that in such a beautiful and grand building no member of the royal family have dwelled there. Till today. It has been heard many a times that hundreds of elephants could be accomodated in the downfloor. In Bundelkhand Maharaja Bir Singh was the founder of Datia State and on Sunday in December 1618 started construction work of 52 big buildings in the state. Bir Singh Dev was a brave and clever ruler. He was contemporery of Samrat Akbar and Jahangir. With the help of Jahangir because of his frienship with him he could rise from small jagir of Badoni to ruler of Bundelkhand.

Bir Singh had assisinated Abulfazal at the instance of Salim (Jahangir) on 9th August 1602 at Sarai Barki near Badoni (which is now known as Antri) because of antagonistic relations between Salim and Akbar Because of this reason there was great friendship between Birsingh Dev ans Salim. After the Death of Akbar the great in 1605 Salim became emperor of India in the name of Jahangir. With the help of Jahangir Singh Dev became the ruler of Orchha. The seven storeyed palace of Datia is Known as old palace. The then historian Abdul Hamid Lahori visited this place on 19th Nov, 1635 along with Emperor Shah Jahan. He has Written that length and breadth of this palace was 84 yards and there were beautiful gardens on all the four sides. This was in it self unique palace.

In Masir-Ul Umra history of Mughal Sardars, It is mentioned that this palace was constructed in 9 years and 35 lakh rutpees were spent on its contruction. This palace is given national importance, which is located on hillock on the western side of Datia, from its establishment point of view. There is clear impact of Mughal… . . architeture on the palace. Vastukala primarily is form of Rajput styled that is why is said to be Bundela foundation. Of the 52 buildings that were got constructed by Birsingh Dev, Datia palace is best of all. This seven storeyed palace is visible from even distance. In each of the portion of this square palace there are four compounds. In the middle is MANDAP. Iron and wood have not been used in this palace made of lime and stone. There are no Shutters or doors and windows. French design pictures are painted on the roofs. The designof stairs. In Ayatkar and vargakar, leads to mystery and deception in the absence of guide in the palace a visitor can easily be misled. The eastern portion of the palace is beautiful and attractive The Jhrokhas of vatayan made of Jhanjri and stone jaali and slopes of tombs are beautiful. In the near by is Mehrab which is projected towards outside. There is an open Prakoshat over this Prakoshat in which there is Jharokha. Central tomb and two other tombs present a peculiar sight. Inthe shelf of central tpmb he idol of Ganesh Ji is there. In front of the two main entrance gate there is a temple of Durga ji. In the first chamber in front of main gate there are home goods of Bundelas. In the upper storey of one chamber there is a Dargah. On both the corners of western side of palace there are two Burjs. On the walls of Burjs plants and leaves have been carved. In front of Southern portion there is famous LALA KA TAAL of Datia. World fame Art Specialist percy Brown has given vivid description of construction of tis palace. Tombs Bharani and Kangoore are mainly worth seeing It is said that this palace has been constructed at that palace where Birsingh Dev and Jahangir had met. This palace is a symbol of exemplary friendship.

There was some damage caused by lightening in 1925. Even today this beautiful palace, from vastukala point of view, is a good tourist spot. Lower two storeys have been closed from security point of view. For detailed study of archaeological movements and in giving new direction to historians this palace is appropriate, which has never been used for residence by family members of the palace; whereas the construction works were undertaken for all facilities of family members of palace. Refugees from West Pakistan were given refuge in old palace in Datia which is 27 K. M. from Jhansi and 75 K. M. away from Gwalior. they left this place after residing here for some time. In the under ground there are some routes and ways at times equestrians go out of the palace. World fame wrestler Gaama used to take his exercises in the wrestling field of this palace. This Wrestling field has been closed now. New houses have been constructed by public at large and there by the beauty of this palace has been hampered. Archeological survey of India and Dist. administration should pay attention to it. Datia is considered as small Brindaban. Tourists are attracted by Bevdi of Sirol, Rajgarh palace, Pratapgarh fort, Sankua Sevda, Ratangarh fort, Karan Sagar, Shilalekh of Ashok, etc. & about 2 dozen such spots. Touring Datia is easy, comfortable and imparts Knowledge. There is queer combination of Bundeli literature, art, and civilization and music.

Jain Temples Of Sonagir
Sonagir is the main religious place of Jains. It is 65K. Ms. away from Gwalior. This is a famous and natural spiritual area. Many a Mahatmas had worshipped here. The oldest and biggest temple of this place is of God Chander Prabhu. This temple was constructed in Vikram335. The huge idol of God Chander Prabhu has been carved out of hillock. Many illustrious stories are connected with this idol. There are many more temples which are on the way while climbing the steps. there are many a cave here. It is said that numerous priests preached there and acquired knowledge . In peaceful environment there is Naryal – Kund at the top of hillock which is always full of water. There is one very attractive Kirti Stambh here. This pillar is about 30 feet high. Every year in the month of chet(March) a fair is held which attracts piligrims from whole of the country. Sonagir is the main religious place for persons preaching Jain Dharam and is also for other tourists. One can easily adjudge the importance after seeing it. In Indian Sanskrit-Heritage. Sonagir has an important contribution.

Orchha
Bundelkhand ‘s important visiting spot is Orcha which is 116 K. Ms. away from Gwalior and 16 K. Ms. away from Jhansi. Orchha is in the district Tikamgardh and is on way from jhansi to Manikpur it is first railway station from jhansi. Orchha had been the capital of old Bundela rulers. River Betwa and other rivers merge here. Of Bundels dynasty, First ruler was Sohanpal in 1268. Rudarpratap in 1509 was its ruler. He was Quite brave and itelligent. In 1531 Rudrapratap shifted his capital from Gadhkunhar to orchha.

Of Bundela rulers Raja Bir Singh Dev was very successful and brave. He was very friendly with Mughal Emperor Jahangir. In order to please Jahangir prime minister of Akbar Abul Fazal was got murdered by Birdev Singh near Antri in 1602. THis had hurt Akbar very much Historians admit that one of the reason of the death of Akbar was murder of Abul Fazal. After the death of Emperor Akbar when princes Salim became the Emperor at the throne of Delhi as Jahangir, he returned the terrytory won by Mughals to Raja Bir Singh Dev and made him ruler of Orchha. Of the various rulers of Orchha the name of Raja BirSingh Dev has been prominent. Raja Birsingh Dev enhanced the cultural herritage of Orchha. He got constructed Jahangir palace and many temples ;which are today trealure of Indian Sanskrit heritage . It is paingul that for want of care of jahangir palace the main building is in bad shap. With in a span of decade or two this beautiful Jahangir palace can lose its cultural beauty.

In 1183 Raja Vikramjit Singh has shifted his capital from Orchha to Tikamgarh. On study of important buildings forts, temples of orchha it transpires many beautiful facts. Hidden in them. Temples palaces of this place are important Jhankians of Indian Cultural heritage. Raja Bharti chandara of Orchha had got constructed temple of Raja Ram in 1522. Similarily Chaturbhuj Mandir is also our heritage. THis is a gift of Bundela rulers. This temple is higher and more beautifulthan other temples of Orchha. THis was got constructed by Raja Madhukar Shah from 1560 to 1570. Badal palace is in front of chaturbhuj temple. there is ground floor in this palace. There are many small open Mandaps. This palace seems bigger than Ram Raja palace. There are many painted pictures in 6 big rooms of the palace. THese are still safe. Natural colours have been used in them. Of these paintings Samudra Manthan, Cheer Haran etc. are main and they are sufficiently beautiful.

Jahangir palace is the most beautiful and attractive of the various temples of Orchha. THis was got constructed in 1668. This is in 220 feet square place. There are 8 big and beautiful tombs and there is a big compound in it. Chajhas decoration is amiable. There is a fountain in the middle of compound which adds to its beauty. The special feature of this palace is the hanging chajhas in front of all rooms and beautifull Jaalis have been fitted in may rooms or Jahangir palace there are beautiful pictures of Mughal Pattern of them some are painting for want of proper care.

Narwar
The famous fort ot Narwar, which is in Shivpuri district was built by Raja Nal which is 100 K. Ms. away from Gwlior. The geographically conditions of Narwar completely match with Nalpur of Raja Nal. Asper great old epic during the period of the Mahabharat time Narwar was known as Nalpur. This state was known as Nishaad state which is being ruled by Veersen and his son was Raja Nal. This fort is one of the important forts of Bundelkhand. Raja Nal was married with Damyanti, daughter of Vivarath. It is said that in the game of chopad Raja Nal had staked his state and had lost every thing. Later, he had to leave his state and migtated to a country known as Nishad. Being tired of his life he had to leave his wife. Damyanti the wife of Nal when reached her father ‘s house weeping bitterly she asked her mother that efforts be made again to trace Maharaj Nal of Narwar if they wanted to see her alive.

Famous Narwar Fort
Bahu mandir After climbing the footsteps, we can reach the main gate of Narwar fort. THis attactive fort has two gates. At the main gate there is an old door in deplorable condition. Onclimbing the steps and on reaching at the sufficient height, one feels that HAVAPOR has been rightly named by its builders. There are many small rooms on both the sides for use of the guards. After climbing the steps of HAVAPOR we reach the compound of the fort and by crossing them access is available to the palaces.

In the historic fort of Narwar there is a building named Safed Haveli (White Building). This buildingis very beautiful from artistic point of view. There are limited doors and windows in it. There is a person near this building which transpires that this Haveli might have been for military officers . In old days prisons were mostly kept in the safe forts. In prisons iron bars are used but unlike this at sufficient height jharokhas are constructed; where stone lanterns have been slantingly fixed. After moving a little ahead of white Haveli there is a good Mosque. After this there is famous Katora Taal of this fort. On all the four sides of this Tall (pond) there are places for keeping horses. Just in the middle of the tank there is SHIVLING on one shila. For want of proper up-keep the buildings of this fort are demolishing and horses’houses also are in Ruined conditions around the katora Taal. Darbar of Dhola s/o Raja Nal is still in good shape. There was one temple of Shivji which became Ruined and has fallen down. The idol also is missing.

Pasardevi
From Katora Taal when we move to north, there is temple of Pasardevi where a huge idol is in lying posture. When Raja Nal had lost all his state in gambling, and when he was leaving the fort the goddess has laid there with utmost grief; even then Raja Nal didnot stop there. There are eight walls and nine tanks (Bawdias) but Bawadias are full rubbish. The buildings of LadauBangla, Rani Mahal and court palaces are worth seeing.

Safe gates of entry of Rani mahal can be seen today. There are high walls around the palaces on all the four sides. It appears, that these palaces were not left open from security point of view. It is important to note that 500 years old building have tubs in their bathrooms where there was adeqate arrangement of hot and cold water. Pipelines are laid down from water tank to bathrooms. A thing of sorrow to note that some efforts were made by Scindia ruler in 1925 for the repair of palaces and temples of this area of Shivpuri but archaeology department didnot pay any attention here.

Gwalior’s Tourist Attractions

Gwalior Fort
Gwalior fortGwalior fort is one of the beautiful and famous forts of India. Writer Taj-Ul-Maseer writes about this fort. “Fast Wind cannot touch its climax and fast clouds cannot cast their shadow in its PARKOTAS. On its Vakshsthal there are written stories of life/death, Sanyog-Viyog, bravery and cowardice. This is situated 110 Km. south of Agra. This stony hillock where this stands is made of peculiar strong stone. This fort is more than 300 ft. high. This is 3 K. M. long from North to South and, 600 to 3000 ft broad from east to west.

On the eastern side of the historic fort Raja Man Singh got constructed a beautiful palace. Outside the palace there are 6 beautiful high gates. Almost all have praised its architect 6 places have been built on this fort and Gujri Mahal is one of the spots worth seeing. There are two routes to climb up this fort. First Gwalior gate is in the east and second in the west is Urvai gate. Apart from them there were 3 more gates which led inside of them Thotha por and Radha Gargaj gates and third is in the south which have been closed now.

5 gates have to be crossed to reach the fort from the eastern side. First gate is ALAMGIR DARWAZA which is now commonly known as Gwalior Gate. Second is BADALGARH or HINDOLA gate, Third is Ganesh Dwar, fourth is LAXMAN Dwar and 5th is Hathiapore. Alamgir Darwaza was got constructed in 1660 by Motimid Khan Governor of this fort in the regime of Aurangzeb. Badalgarh gate is a beautiful example of stone craft which was constructed in 15th Century which is known in the name of Badal Singh brother of Raja Kalyan Mal Tomar.

Buildings At The Fort
About half a dozen palaces exist on this historic fort of them some were constructed by Raja Man Singh and some by Muslim rulers. Manmandir which exhibits good craftmanship was got constructed by Raja Mansingh in 1516. The eastern front portion is 300feet long and 80 feet wide. Over this building are six big tombs. This is an example of great craftsman ship of stone carving. Southern portion of Man Mandir is 150feet long and 50-60 feet high; over this 3 BURJIYAN though over 500 years old still shine. Idols of Animals-Birds, Trees and Human beings are made in the alls of the building which add to its beauty.

Gujri Mahal
The second palace is Gujri Mahal. Raja Mansingh got it constructed for his wife MRIGNAYANI whom he loved very much. This palace too was constructed when Man Mandir was constructed i. e. around 1515-17. On all the four sides rooms are constructed in Gujri Mahal. There is no such room which does not exhibit example of high art. In this palace water was brought by earthen pipe for Rani “MRIGNAYANI”. Other 2 palaces are Karan Mahal and second Vikram Mahal. On seeing them common man is led to appreciate SANSKRAT VABHAV of this area. There are two more palaces Jahangir Mahal and Shah Jahan Mahal. There were many a mandir. Of them a few are still safe and are examples of beautiful craftmanship. Of them SAS BAHU KA MANDIR, TELE KA MANDIR, JAIN IDOLS and Chaturbhuj Mandir are worth seeing. In this great fort there are many a tank which have been carved from the stones. Of them Johar Talab, Apart from this in this historic big fort of Gwalior there are many a BETHAK and building of European style where there is Scindia School now a days.

Jain Idols
Jain Idols have been carved in the stone walls of the fort. Of them some idols from their carving reveal that they came into being from the year 1440 to 1472. Of them many are religious idols some are in standing and some are in sitting posture. GHOS SAHIB’s TOMB On the east of the town at Hajira, there is the tomb of GOS SAHIB. This is an example of infancy art of Mughal art. It is square in construction and on all the four sides there are Burj; on their ends are small Gumbad. On all the four sides there are thick and fine JALEES and on the top of the building there is a big Gumbad which was once decorates with Shining blue stones. Badayun in his book MUNTKHABUL-TAWAREEKH has written about Gos Sahib that he was a great sant and also Guru of Mughal Emperor Akbar and Tansen.

Tomb Of Tansen
Near the Tomb of Mohd. Gos there is the tomb of famous singer TANSEN. On the roof of the building there is encarved Gumbad which has carving in it. Every year “Tansen Samaroh” is held here. This tomb is very simple but there is handicraft work of beautiful jalis.

Samadhi Of Rani Laxmi Bai
In the first Independence movement Virangana Laxmi Bai who shaked the British Empire, her Samadhi is in the campus of Phool Bagh. eight metalled / tall statue of Rani Laxmi Bai is situated here which is a source of inspiration to our youth. This SAMADHI reminds us of the martyors of freedom. In the honor and memory of the Rani every year a Fair is held here on 18th of June.

Phool Bagh
At a short distance from Railway Station there exists Garden in Phool Bagh. In the Phool Bagh campus there exist Residential palace, Museum, and other buildings. This Garden was constructed by late Madho Rao Scindia. In 1922 Princess of Wales inaugurated it on his arrival at Gwalior. The only zoo of Gwalior city is situated in this campus. One temple, one Mosque, one Gurudwara, Theosophical Lodge and prayer place of Both religion exist here. Constructions were done by the then government as an example of religious equality.

Jaivilas Palace
JAIVILAS PALACE was constructed for the residence of Maharaja Scindia at the cost of about Rs. 19 lac during 1861 to 1874. This is made in a big garden decorated by shady trees and beautiful roads. On all the four sides there are lakes and lawns and flower beds which make the sight very attractive. The area of the Palace is 12, 04, 771 square feet. Michael Filoz was its designer and constructor who intelligently prepared its design on the basis of PILAZEZ of Italy.

Moti Mahal
Moti Mahal is one of the worth seeing palaces which was once Secretariat of Madhya Bharat Govt. At present there are many offices of the present Govt. colored glass work has been done very beautifully in some of its rooms and there are many wall paintings which exhibit Hindu Purans, RAG RAGNYON, Maharaja’s sittings as Darbar and various rally etc. of Maharaja Jiwaji Rao.

Museum
Of the main museums of this place are Municipal Corporation Museum, Maharaja Jiwaji Rao Scindia Museum, and Gujri Mahal Museum situated on the ground floor of the fort are the chief ones. Museum of Nagar Nigam was got constructed by EX Maharaj Madhorao Scindia in 1902. This Museum contains Pashan Pratimayen, china clay, glass ivory, instruments of warfare, old coins, animals, birds, artistic pictures, samples of prastar shilp handicraft and apart from the there are AVSHESH of India’s first Independence Movement. PURVA SAMACHAR KAKHSH VATHIKA, and PRASTAR KOSHAL VITHIKA, etc. are assembled in this museum. The Maharaja Jiwaji Rao musium was established in 1964 in one of the wing of Jaivilas Palace. PASHAN PRATIMAYAI, Metal Idols, coins, LAGHO CHITRAS, art of ivory, cut glass work are displayed in this Museum. The Most talked things are big FANOOS JHAAD, Napoleon table, SILVER TRAIN and Persian carpets.

N.C.C. Women Training School
NCC Women officer training school is one training sansthan of its kind in India which exists in Gwalior as a place of martyrdom of Rani Jhansi. Women from various states of India and islands come here for training of N. C. C. Its establishment is a pride of India. Its establishment took place in 1964 in historic building Ex Grand HOTEL. Till now Ten Thousand trainees have passed out in different various courses. There has been important contribution of State Government. In its establishment in Gwalior. The commanding Officer of this establishment is a Brigadier and there are LT. COL., Major and four other Women Officers.

Laxmibai Physical Education Deemed University
The fame of this establishment in Gwalior is as far and wide as that of sports establishment of Patiala. This establishment imparts physical training to men and women not only of India but also to the foreingners. For continuous training facilities this establishment is progressing continuously. Apart form the routine training National or International sports in this university accord a special status. Such institution impart importance to Gwalior.

Sas-bahu Ka Mandir
This temple is 32 meters long and 22 meters wide. There is Vishal Vedi caltar in the centre of this temple. In the 3 directions there are Mandaps and Devalayai is in 4th direction. There is hardly a place where the work of carving does not exist. At the gate of the temple idols of Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh, etc. have been displayed in the stones. Mandir of SAS-BAHU is small in size and is beautiful are example of Mid India VASTUKALA. There is Vishnu Mandir. The front portion of stone is protruded in the front from where the sight seeing of three sides is possible.

Gurudwara Data Bandi Chod
In the memory of Sixth Guru of Sikhs Sant Har Govind Singh ji Bhavya Gurdwara has been constructed at Gwalior fort. When Jahangir was throned at Delhi in 1605, Shahzada Khusro had revolted against Jahangir. In Taran Taran Khusro sought blessings from the 5th Guru of Sikhs Guru Arjun Dev Ji. Data Bandi chod Gurdwara has been fully constructed of marble. This is a grand and huge Gurdwara. colored Glasses decorate the main building. The kalashs at the gumbads are made of gold. There are also 2 tanks in it. Recital of Guru Granth Sahub makes the surroundings atmosphere peaceful and sacred. Peace is here. On Amavasya there are 4 special prayers, religious songs and keertan; in which many a follower participate. This occasion is transformed into afair. Food is always distributed here in form of Langer. Baba Uttam singh and Baba Amar Singh started its construction in 1970 with great zeal and enthusiasm. Tourists visiting Gwalior visit this Gurdwara positively.

On 30th July 1993 Sant Bawa Amar singh Ji passed away for heavenly abode while serving the humanity. Such Sants have rarely been observed by me on this planet. Bawa Amar singh ji had served the humanity in the past 2 decades and was popular in all classes of Society.

The Scindia School Fort
Scindia School was established at the historic fort. Indias famous public School was established by Late Madho Rao Scindia in 1879 in the name of “SARDAR SCHOOL” in the nature’s lap. This is now known as SCINDIA SCHOOL in place of SARDAR-SCHOOL. At present students from various states and foreigners are being educated. The school is Continuously progressing and now this is one of the special schools of India.

Tele Ka Mandir
This temple was constructed by pratihar Rajas. This is known as Teli Ka Mandir. Of the various old historic worth seeing temples of Gwalior, Teli ka Mandir ranks highest. This is said to have been constructed in 9th century. This temple is constructed in southern Indian style and is the combination of Dravian and Aryan style. The real name of this temple has been Telang Mandir. Its height is about 100 feet. The main gate of Teli Ka Mandir was brought in 1881 from else where and fixed here.

Mata Mandir
In the east of Suraj Kund there is Mata Devi Ka Mandir at the Gwalior Fort. From the point of view of construction, it seems to be of 12th Century. This Satapathya art is alike Sas Bahu ka Mandir which is very attractive. Here many people come to see it.

Surajkund
A square Kund constructed at the fort is known as Suraj Kund. It was constructed in 6th Century. It is said that Ashram of Galib Rishi was here. The Founder of Gwalior Durg (fort) Suraj Sen got this temple constructed.

Urvai Ghati
In 1527 when Babar came to Gwalior Durg he was very keen to see the beauty of Urvai Ghati, he was full of joy. In his Baburnama he has mentioned “This unique Ghati which is situate in the west of Durg. There are two big tanks in between this. On all the four sides of these tanks which are within ADVA, here 20-25 wells have been dug made from where water for irrigation is taken. They have planted quite a few trees and plants of flowers. This is a beautiful place. ”

Dargah Khwaja Kanoon Sahib
Khwaja kanoon Sahib Nagauri was resident of Marwad. He came to Gwalior in 1481. Later he started living here. His full name as carved on his tomb was Saiyed Saiyeeduddin Kanoon Rehmat Ullah Aleh chishtiya. But he was popular here with name as Khwaja kanoon. Hazrat Khwaja kanoon Sahib left for heavenly abode in 940 Hijri i. e. in between 121 -25. One of the carvings on the inner parts of the tombs reveals”Have belief that in 940 Hijri Khwaja kanoon Sahib attained aternar sprit. Visiters with full faith and avichal Shradha & firm confidence visit for 40 days and you will fulfil your aim/desire. ” The then historians have written much about khwaja Sahib. He was a sufi Sant of the highest order. Even today people of various religious faiths daily often their prayers & AKIDAT.

Veer Sawarkar Sarovar
Near Achleshwar Mahadev and Maharani Laxmi Bai Arts and Commerce college there is a sarowar which is previously known as Katora Tal, which is now a days known as veer Sawarkar Sarovar. There stands an idol of veer Sawarkar of human size which is surrounded by water and shady trees. This Sarovar is a visiting place for tourists.

Maharani Laxmi Bai College
Rulers of Gwalior State took great interest in education of this place. As a result 100 years ago a beautiful building named as Victoria School was constructed which is now known as MALBA MAHAVIDYALAI. This college is the biggest college of Jiwaji University of M. P. from where well known personalities received their education. Well known writer Dr. Vrindavan Lal Verma, famous poet Jaanisar Akhtar, EX. Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Bajpai etc. have been its students.

Sanatan Dharam Mandir
One of famous temples of Gwalior Sanatan Dharam Mandir is on the top. This occupies huge complex. Lord Shri Krishan and beautiful idols of other gods are there in it. This is situated in front of Chamber of Commerce.

Krishan Mandir In Chhatri
Chhatri Mandir is situated opposite to Jaivilas Palace and nearby Savarkar Sarovar. This temple is managed by the scindia trust. In its garden there exist Chhataris of Late Jiwaji Rao Scindia and his Mother Gajra Raja Scindia made of marble which are the source of attraction for tourists.

Jiyaji Chowk (bada)
The busiest place of Gwalior city is Maharaj Bada. In its center there is a garden. In its center there is a huge statue of Jiyaji Rao Scindia made of marble. This idol is fixed in a high Marble Plateform. On all the four sides shopping centres are situated. General post office, 2 huge Buildings of State Bank of India. Town Hall and Victoria Markets etc. in Baada Campus are worth seeing special feature examples of beautiful establishments. Special feature of this market is that there are 7 entries to it.

Chhatris Of Scindia Dynasty
There is a big Collection of Chatris of Scindia Dynasty in Chatri Bazar. These Chatris are very imporant from the point of view of art. House Constructed on all the four sides of these chatris has minimised their beauty. Chatris have been constructed with pink and white stones. Chatris of Jiwaji Rao Scindia, Daulat Rao Scindia and Janko ji Rao Scindia are worth seeing these chatris. Here carved Elephant , Horses and Tigers construction are beautiful. For want of their proper care, these chatris are being damaged. Responsible civilians and Government must pay attention in this direction.

Sun Temple
From the time immemorial worshiping god sun has special place in Gwalior. Mono/of Scindia dynasty rulers has been the Surya and Sheshnaag. From this it is established that its dynasty is Naag-Kul Bhushan. Birla on 23rd January 1988 gifted Surya Mandir(the sun temple)to the people of Gwalior Pink stone has been used in its constructions. In the center on a chabutra is the very beautiful idol of SURYA Bhagwan. In the center (GARBHGREH) a special device has been adopted for reaching the sun -rays on idol of Surya Bhagwan.

Dev Kho
This place is situated about 16KMs away from Gwalior on Lashkar Tigra road. The natural beauty of this place is undescribeable. Because of thick forest various beautiful birds and wild animals can be seen here. DEVKHO is surrounded with natural atmosphere which is amiable. On hillock there is beautiful temple of Lord Shiva. Late MadhoRao Scindia used to visit this place and think over important problems of the state. The lovely note of Jharna is very much pleasant which on hearing a person starts singing. In the whole area full of natural beauty leke Deo Kho is rarely found. Dev Kho is quite near to Gwalior city where Govt. have constructed good approach roads which have been laid after cutting the hillocks with KIRINAS. ON both the sides beautiful trees and plants have been planted.

Tighra Dam
Tighra Dam is situated 18 Kms away south-west of Lashkar. This a beautiful place. Hilly stones slopes have sufficient strength to hold water in it. Gwalior gets its drinking water from Tigra water works. This has becomea beautiful picnic spot during rainy season.

Padmavati (pawaya)
Of many tourist spots Name of PAWAYA is illustrious. Sometimes back there must have been a beautiful Royal city here. On the basis of arachaeolgical evidence available so far this is the old city of PADMAVATI. There is mention of padmavati in Vishnupuran where in it is mentioned that this was the Capital of Nagas which is 30 KM away from Dabra & 80 KM far from Gwalior.

Peetambra Peeth (datia)
On the way to Jhansi, Datia town is 75 KM away from Gwalior. Datia is an important historic place. The immage of palaces etc. Have been mitigated. Datia has become prominent town because of peetambarapeeth. This is a place of Buglamukhi Devi. Peace has always been in this state. The courtyard of this temple is made of marble. Darshans of Devi in her various forms can be had here. The temple of Bhagvati is also here.

Baba Kapoor Sahib
In continuation of Madaria important Sufi Sant Shah Abdul Gafoor who is popularly known as Baba Kapur in Masses, amongst Sufis of mid Gwalior has a special status amongst sufis. Baba Kapur was sant of the down poor, laboures and professionals. Even today Dhobis (washerman) Labourers, bullocks -carters, cultivators when they start their daily work they call “OH BABA KAPUR”. His tomb is living combination of National unity.

Saturn Temple At Sanichara
The Saturn temple is situated at Sanichara, a railway station in Gwalior -Bhind Narrou gauge railway line. It is about 27 miles away from Gwalior. The history of this place is traced long back in the Ramayana and puran period. It is said that Hanuman after burning the lanka saw the Saturn standing before him with foded hands. He asked him what he wanted. On request of Saturn Hanuman provided him a place at Sanichara where he could be worshipped. Now people from all over country come to this place to worship and satisfy the Saturn to pacify the evil effects of the planet. as well as to seek his kindness to be healthy, wealthy and powerfull. On Every Somvati Amavasya a fair is held here. The present Saturn temple at sanichra was built by daulat Rao Scindia in 1825.

Other Tourist Spots
Nearby Gwalior in Morena District of Chambal Division there are many tourist spots of them Rani Kunti’s birth place KUNTALPURI Shiv temple of 10th Century, Kakanmath, from these Scindia Chatris, National park of Shivpuri, temples of Chanderi, tombs of Sultans, Shahi Masjid, Hava Mahal, Fort, Seven storeyed palace of Datia, Jahangir Mahal of Orcha nerar Jhansi, Ram Raja temple, Laxman temple, etc. are other tourist spots which are bound to influence you.

Art Tradition
Gwalior has its own cultural tradition. Music, idolcarving, and picture painting have a special status. Raja Jiyaji Rao Scindia of Scindia dynasty under “NAGPURWALA”picture painter got many beautiful paintings painted in Motimahal, Gorkhi Mandir and other palaces. In this work help of many picture painters was taken who were residing in Chitera oli Lashkar, who were from Bundelkhand and had come from Jhansi and settled here. The credit of starting picture painting in Gwalior goes to Shabihkar Daud Mian and Mukand Sakharam Bhaand. In Tiger caves of Gujri Mahal by seeing the wall paintings the live leness of art of chitrakala is revealed. Late shri L. S. Rajput, Rudrahnji, Umeshkumar and Shubakrishanrao have also been important. Pictur painting was contributed by them a great role in Gwalior. Shri Devlalikar the first Principal of Govt. Lalil Kakla University played an important role in evoking the art of Gwalior.

Late Shri L. S. Rajput was a good Picture painter and a teacher of arts; his paintings in exhibitions gained popularity in the whole country. In the same manner the name of Rudarhanji hardly needs any introduction. He too was a well known picture painter and idolmaker. In Padmavidyalaya of Gwalior his idols are worth seeing.

Shri Vimal Kumar, who was incharge of Kalavathika situated at padav for quite a long period did a great deal in the field of art. He by going ahead from traditional painting, established a special status. Similarly Madan Bhatnagar and Vishvaitra Vasvani established a special status in the field of art. Pictures of vasvani Hi gained popularity in the whole of country, Late D. P. Sharma also contributed a lot of to Gwalior. Fountains made by him can be seen at Akash Vani Tiraha, and Baradari crossing at Morar . In the field of latest picture painting and idol carving Gwalior youth has been infused by VIMALKUMAR. With the efforts of Vimal Kumar first National idol art camp organised in 1974 inspired the young idol makers and picture makers of Gwalior / prevailed like Dhumketu who in the field of national and international art in the whole of India. Of them the drawing of Shri. Usaf were rewarded in National and inter – national exhibitions. Anil Kumar is a signatory as a young picture painter. He is the youngest artist who made known by awards in the national exhibitions. Chandarsen Jadhav has been awarded a National award in the field of idol making. Vijay Shindhe is one of the identity in National and international exhibitions by his work of art. Shri Robin David, Sambhaji Rao Shindhe, AnwarKhan, Madhu Sudan Sharma, Santosh Jadiya, On prakash Jadiya, etc. are the product of art of Gwalior.

Shilp Koushal Of Gwalior
Shilp Koushal of Gwalior is famous for its beauty, historic development adorance and its liveliness. Big Jain idols, Sas Bahu Ka Mandir, Man Mandir, at the fort and other important idols and buidings are peculiar examples of Shilp koushal. Jalis of tomb of Ghos Sahib are fascinating. Availability of stone for the development of Shilp Koushal of Gwalior is of great significance. Different type of stones are available in different querries situated from the point of view of vastushilp. Banmor, Kuleth, Niravali, Shankarpur, Lanka, and Gangamalanpur querries situated in the north of Lashkar have been providing useful stone from shilp kala point of view from the time immerorial. In the field of art, cultural relations and in their development of Govt. and administration play a vital role. It has been an attribute to Gwalior that most rulers had been lovers and supporter of art. Under their supervision the art gained prominence. Artists were accorded desired results the Shilpis for attaining the highest aims presented desired results of Shilp Koushal in the form of Huge buildings parasads, and pashaan idols.

With their soft hands metalled cheni and hammer could carve the desired imaginations of the breast of hard stone. “Didaru Mistri””Shambhu”etc. well known Stone carvers and mistris of Gwalior gained sufficient fame. Motimahal and Jaivilas Palace have been constructed by these mistris. Stone obtained from Ganga Malanpur was carved by “Aladhin Mistri” into Paanch Batti Jhaad with Handi and four fanoos with rose flowers coming out which were presented by Gwalior to Late Rular Edward of Britain who expressed his happiness for their beauty. This fanoos tree is there even today in the archeological museum of London . Similerly gate constructed at Dafran Sarai Padav is also examplary. Shilpis of Gwalior not only in Gwalior they have presented beautiful examples of their are in great cities of India. The famous “Gateway of India”in Bombay and High Court Buildings in Lahore are the living examples.

A Few Known Stone Carvers Of Gwalior
1. Didaru Mistri Jaivilas Parasad
2. Saluru Mistri MotiMahal
3. Shambhu Mistri Victoria College
4. Gafoor Mistri Jal Vihar
5. Aladin Mistri Panch Patti Stone trees and Fanoos

Fairs Of Gwalior
There have been fairs in Gwalior which have promoted our Cultural Unity. On occasion of Raksha Bandhan there is a fair of Chakri in front of tomb of Ghos Sahib. In the end of monsoons in Sharad season there is festival of NAVRATRI which is celebrated with great pomp and show in various temples of Goddess Durga.

Gwalior Exhibition which starts in December is famous in the whole of country. This fair starts on 20th December for a period of one month. This is the biggest Exhibition of northern India. In the campus of fair there are about one thousand paccashops which are decorated in artistic manner by commercial sector and Govt. departments. Almost all states participate in this comercial fair in establishing their stalls. Businessmen from Jammu Kashmir to Madras – Kerala sell their goods. In this exhibition there are Kavi Sammelans and Mushayaras of India level. There are also wrestling and fire work features.

There is an elaborate fair at fort in Databandi Chod Gurdwara. In similar manner there is a fair of people of Jain Dharam religion at the fort. There is 3days Urs Shariff of Hazrat Mohd. Ghos Sahib in the month of Ramzan on 12, 13and 14. Similar Urs take place on the Tombs of Khwaja kanoon Sahib and Baba kapur Sahib. Urs of Mansoot Shah Sahib at tomb Situated at Bada and at tomb of Mir Badshah also are celebrated with great pomp and show. Jhule Lal fair of Sindhi society for one week is also very attractive. Similarly there is a three day Tansen Samaroh at tomb of Tansen. There are Nav-Ratri fairs at Mandre ki mata and Karoli wali Mata . At Achleshwar and Gupteshwar temples fairs are celebrated on Shivratri.

Gwalior’s Music Tradition

Glory Of Music
Abdul Fazal’s ‘AINE AKBARI’ contains detailed discussions that in the Darbar of akber out of 36 highest ranking singers 15 artists were of Gwalior parmpara of them one tansen SANGEET SAMRAT of behat nearby Gwalior hardly needs any introduction. similarly in reign of Aurangzeb. mugal Emperor Gwalior was undoubtedly centre of highest cultural centre because FAFIRULLAH KHAN GOVERNOR OF KASHMIR IN HIS Rag darpan a sangeet Granth has ascrided Gwalior as”SHIRAZ” of India.

In 15th century Raja Man singh of Tomar dynasty of Gwalior has been attributed giviing popularity to music in Gwalior. He invented Dhrupad style and established Vidyapeeth first of all in Gwalior and by establishing many creation of Dhrupads extended his great contribution to which has no parallel.

In another study in the first chapter of “FRISHTA- KA ITHAS” there is an interesting mention of development and progress of music. in this it is mentioned that Malchand. Whose poetry is famous in Malwa, brought music from south to Gwalior Here in it is mentioned that music was propagated by him in India.

Malchand remained in Gwalior for quite sometime and dynasty of Talingi in Gwalior music tradition is quite old and is for many centuries Tomar dynasty gave their helping hand in the develpment of music : this has historic background in. Tabat-e-Akbari written by khwaja Nazimudin Ahmed in wich there is mention of exchange of music books of Doongar Singh Tomar and Jain-ul Abedin of Kashmir.

Raja Man Singh was a great adjudge of art of music Rani Mrignaini was helpful to Raja Mansingh in his music recitals; Mrignaini has become ever lasting in music grafted in the name of Gujri, Bhahul Gujri, Maal Gujri and Mangal Gujri.

Raja Man Singh has credit for writing “MANKUTUHAL” a music book which was later translated by Fakirulla. Its pandulipi is available in Raja Library Rampur (U.P). This book contains the version of assemblance of Sangeet Samelan by Raja Man singh. This fact is corroborated by Abul Fajal. Bakhshu, Charju, Karan and Bhanu were the four artists of Mansingh. They had assembled such songs which were liked by all sections of society.

Especiality of Gwalior Gharana lies in its various Raagas viz, Dhrupud, Dhamar, Khyal, Tappa, Thumri, Dadra, Leda, Tarana, Triput and Tarang. Speciality of Man Singh’s music was that he accepted the popular music of Northern India grafted it into high class music.

Abdul Fajal in “Aine Akbara ” has written about poet Laurate Tansen that singer of his calibre was not there for thousands of years ago. Tansen was the first person, who in his Malhar had combined Komal Gandhar and Nishad; apart from this he was author of “MIAN KI TODI”.

K….tells us that after listening the music of Tansen, not only trees and hills started moving; even candls used to get lighted by his song is asserted by old musicians of Gwalior area. About him it is popularly famous ” VIDHANA YES JIYA JANE KE SESHAM DIYAI NA KAN, DHARA MERU SUB DOLI HAI TANSEN KI TAAN.”

Tansen
Gwalior ranks very high in history of music of our country During 1486 to 1518 in the regime of Raja Man singh Tomar, efforts for development of Dhrupad Gayan… …..had started. Credit of birth of drupad …..goes to Gwalior in this universe. Raja Man Singh Tomar himself was a good musician. He did a lot for advancement and its publicity. No Govt. or musician could be free of this debt.

There were many famous singers in the Darbar of Man Singh Tomar. Of them Baiju, Bakhshu, Charnu Bhagwan, Ghodu and Ram Das. Man Singh wrote MANKOTUHUL of which in 1673 in reign of Jahangir. its version in the name of “SANGEET DARPAN” was done by fakirullah.

The language of Dhrupad is that of Madhya Pradesh and Bundelkhand. This is the language.. . of nearby Gwalior Famous writer Rahul Sanskrityayan writes that it is imperative to know that Gwalior has been seat of literature, music and art for centuries Popularly Known as Brijbhasha was previously of Gwalior During reign of Akbar his Darbari & main singer Tansen earned name and fame in the entire universe Gwalior gets the credit for the birth place of this renowned singer. His tomb in Gwalior at Hajira is a sacred spot for thousands of tourists and singers.

Poet laureate Tansen was source of inspiration to Emperor Akbar even during war time. Tansen has also written for invincible army of the emperor. Apart from being a singer, he was also a poet and writer.

As per Tansen – “Ae Ayo, Ayo Ke Balwant ke Shah, Ayo chatrapati Akbar Saptadeep aur Asht Disa Nar Narender, Dhar Dhar Dare Nisi din kar aik chavipave. Varan na pava langa nagar Jahan Jitat firat sunyat hai Jalaludin Mohd ko Laskar Sah Humayan ko Nandan. Chandan aik teg Jodha Akbar “Tansen” ko hihal kijal Deeje kotin jarjari nazar Kamara.

During his long 50 years reign Akbar fought many wars. He used to take along Tansen in many wars. Gujrat was the biggest victory of Emperor Akbar’s period.This war was fought in 1957. At this occasion Tansen had accompanied the Emperor and had paid homage at the Tomp of his teacher Bakshu. Tansen was quite courageous. Many a time he used to utter as equal to him before Emperor Akbar. In one of his stanzas he has written- ” if Akber is Narpatti then Tansen is Taanpati” Before Akbar once Tansen had sung many stanzas in praise of Raja Ram Chandar. As per famous book “AINE AKBARI” in the Darbar of Akbar of very famous 36 musicians 16 were from Gwalior alone. Tansen was the prime of them all.

Mian Tansen……….. Gwalior
Baba Ram Das -do-
Subhan Khan -do-
Shri Gyan Kha -do-
Main Chand -do-
Vichitra Khan
Student of Tansen -do-
Mohd Khan -do-
Veer Mandal Khan -do-
Baj Bahadur, MalwaRuler -do-
Shihab Khan Gwalior Veena Vadak
Daud Dhodi Singer
Sarod Khan Gwalior Singer
Chonch Khan -do-
Parveen Khan Gwalior veena vadak
Surdas s/o Baba Ram Das Singer
Rang Sen Agra Singer
Shekh Davan Vadya Vadak
Rehmat Ullah Singer
Meer Sayaed Ali Mashhad Tambura Vadak
Ustaad Usof Hirat Sultan -do-
Hafiz Hussain -do-
Mashad Barham Ali Hirasat Singer
Sultan Hashim Mashhad Tambura Vadak
Ustad Mohd.Amin Tambura Vadak
Hafiz Khwaja, Ali Mashhoor Singer
Mir Abdullah Vadak
Peer Khurasan -do-
Nephew of Dawam Singer
Mohad hussen Tambura Vadak

Out of them 15 singers were student of school of Sangeet (Music) of Raja Man Singh. Man Singh had established first school of Music at Gwalior fort. Two Centuries after Tansen, Name of Gwalior was made famous by musicians Ustad Bade Mohd. Khan, Ustad Haddu Hassu Khan (Khayal Gayak), Baba Dixit, Bhau Sahib Guruji, Parbat Singh, Krishan Rao and Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan by their recitals.

Ustaad Hafiz Ali Khan Sahib
Most famous Sarod Vadak, Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan Sahib was amongst one of the top artists of the country. He was born in Gwalior in 1888. He got his education of Sarod vadan from his father Shri Nanne Khan. He got education of Hori, Dhrupad Pt. Ganeshi Lal Maharaj, 11th pedigree of Swami Maharaj Haridas Thakur r/o Mathura and Chukka ju and education of Sursingar was accorded by Akbar’s Navaratan Mishri Singh Binkar’s and Ustad vazeer Khan, ustad of nawab Rampur.

Sarodvad was brought into being by his ancestors. RABAB is music instrument of Kabul, which people used to play at the time of war. Over this Rode (TAANT) strings were fixed. In persian this “RABAB” is known as “SAROD”. Present Sarod is modified form of RABAB. Ghulam Bandgar Khan of Kabul used to visit India for trade of Horses. Once he left the trade and became Rasaledar in the army of Rewa Maharaj. His son Ghulam Ali Khan was having one small Rabab. He used to play it very nicely. On being pleased Rewa Mahara gave education of Hori, Dhrupad etc. for 19 years to Gulam Ali Khan and made him perfect and said that I have made your Sarod as Been. Now you can roam throughout India.

Ghulam Ali Khan after living in Banda, Farkhabad and Lucknow for some time, he joined service of Darbar of Maharaja Daulat Rao Scindia for Rs. 500/-p. m. Ghulam Ali Khan had 4 Sons. Of them 1st Jamma Khan went to Kabul. Hussain Khan was sitar player of Gwalior Maharaja. Third son Surad Khan made important changes in Sarod. It is he who used steel sheet on Sarod. Fourth Son Nanne Khan was in service of Maharaj Gwalior. Nanne Khan used to practise Sarod for a very long time and in practice 3 tabla players men were changed but he used to carry on his practice. He did not sleep for twenty two years Balwant Rao Khani, Masoorkar doctor, Balwant Rao puranik, Ram Bhau r/o Pune were his disciples. Nanne Khan Sahib had 3 sons; his 3rd son Hafiz Ali Khan Sahib stretched music tradition to its highest glory. Being influenced by his ability late Maharaja Madho Rao Scindia placed him in the highest seat in his Darbar that tradition was also followed by Maharaja Jiwaji Rao as well in year 1950 after being relieved from there he was appointed in Madhav Sangeet Mahavidhyalay. Padam Bhushan Ustad Amjad Ali Khan is the Youngest son of Hafiz Ali Khan Sahib who has glorified his name in the entire world. Ustad Hafiz ali khan sahib who has brought the name of Gwalior on the map of the World, on being influenced by his art he was honoured as AAFTAB-E-SAROD in the music conference of Bengal and Maharaja of Gwalior attributed him the title of “SANGEET RATANLANKAR”. After thr establishment of SANGEET NATAK ACADEMY in the very 1st year he was honoured by the highest award by Dr. Radha Krishnan, honourable president of India. He was also appointed as an Important member in Academy. In 1960 he was honoured with Padam Bhushan. In the decade of sixties Jhankar recital of Hafiz directions. He became very pupular with Shri Parbat Singh Mridangacharya. In the name of Hafiz Alio Khan Sahib a trust was formed 6 years before for the development of music and its training in Gwalior and Delhi at the instance of Ustad Amjad Ali Khan Sahib. The head quarter has been based in Jiwaji Ganj, Lashkar. With the help of this trust the young artists /interested in music are being sufficiently benefitted. Many well known personalities are members of this trust.

Dr. Krishna Rao Shankar Pandit
Dr. Krishna Rao Shankar Pandit, representative of Gwalior gharana and ex-great DARBARI of Gwalior state was born in Gwalior in 1894. His father Shri Shankar Rao Pandit was student of Ustad Haddu Khan and Nathu Khan Sahib. He got education of music from his father and teacher and gained popularity in Young age. Because of his hard practice Pandit ji was enlisted as one of the important KHYAL SINGERS.

Government of India honoured him with Padam Bhushan, there by acknowledged importance of KHYAL GAYAKI and Gwalior Gharana. The music which was started by Ustad Hassu Hadu Khan Sahib was further continued by Padit Ji. Being a singer Pt. ji performed a big and important job by laying foundation of SANGEET GANDHARV MAHAVIDYALAYA in 1914 which is now at the top and a famous and flourishing music university and is producing good artists to the society; this is being run by his youngest son Pandit Laxman Rao ji. In 1947 Maharaja of Gwalior honoured him by appointing him in MADHAV MUSIC UNIVERSITY. He established the propriety of music of GWALIOR GHARANA by undertaking sangeet tours with in the country and abroad; which is his great gift.

Last year Government of M. P. in his honour performed a big ceremonial function which remained in force for 1st year in the entire country. Centenary year has also been celebrated in the honour of Pandit Ji. Of his son Prof. Narain Rao pandit and Pandit Laxman Rao Pandit are good musicians. Pandit ji has also written books on TABLA, JAL TARANG, SITAR, etc. Of his students Vishnupant Chaudhary, Ram Chander Rao, Madho Rao Joshi and Datatre Jogelkar are the main.

Ustad Amjad Ali Khan
Ustad Amjad Ali Khan is the youngest son of Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan. He was born on 9th October, 1945 in his old Parental house situated in Jiwaji Ganj, Gwalior. Amjad Sahib enjoyed blessings and affections of his father and Teacher, Hafiz Ali Khan Sahib. At the age of 7-8 years he had started playing sarod. Much of his father’s music style can be heard in his Sarod Vadan.

Today Amjad Ali Khan fame has spread in the entire world. In 1992 he was awarded PADAM BHUSHAN by Hon’ble President of India. He had been playing sarod since the age of 10 years in presence of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the President of India, and forced the audience laud his recital in 1956. Since then he had started travelling in the country and abroad and by his exhaustive music performances he has made Sarod popular in the entire world. Ancestors of Amjad Sahib had migrated from Afganistan to Gwalior state. Sarod came into being on their account at the age of 15 years. Amjad Sahib had become popular in the whole of the country. Prayag Sangeet Samiti honoured him with title of SAROD SAMRAT and Government of India in 1975 awarded him with PADAM SHRI. He is such a Sarod Vadak of India that BBC made a film on him 20 years back. In 1989 Film Division of Govt. of India also made an hour’s documentary film on Amjad Ali Khan Sahib and Rrelayed it on Television national Network. Amjad Ali Khan Sahib born in Gwalior is such an artist who has highlighted the name of city in the entire universe and even today he is active and at his instance Jiwaji university has initiated an Academy on ‘TANSEN’ revence. Every pedigree of the city owes respect to this great artist of music.

Dr. Ishwar Chandra Karkare
HINDUSTANI SANGEET Sultan i-mosiqui ,sangeet prabhakar,fankar i- jahan, kalamani Dr.Ishwarchandra karkare ji was very small when his father -the great pleader “shiromani adhivakta” “sahitya ratna” sri. RAMCHANDRA Moreshwar KARKARE left he world. at present dr.I.C.Karkare ji {MBBS,MD,MA}is working as a medical officer he represents the nath -parampara he got his training of hindustani classical music from 1.pt.pandurang rao renichintalwar of gwalior gharana 2.pt.gangadhar bhagwat of gwalior gharana 3.pt.ram marathe of gwalior gharana and he got his training of spiritual music from yogiraj dr.m.harkare ji of nagpur Dr.I.C.Karkare is regarded as one of the most popular singer from gwalior at present.

History of Gwalior II

History Of Gwalior
Progress of mankind had reached town life prior to 6000 to 2500 B.C. which is proved through 7 places of Madhya Pradesh, these places are Ujjain, Mandasaur, Maheshwar, Navdatoli, Jabalpur, and Sagar etc.The effigies found link it with Hadappa culture. In Gwalior area also there is evidence of such culture of pre and post period of that era. This area was beginning of 600 B.C who had snatched it from Shishu-Nagas Pawaya village which is near Dabara was the Capital of that era. paraviekh (Script) found in Pawaya. reveals that at that time the ruler of this place was Swamin Shivnadi in 3rd Century this area was ruled by nagas. It can be said on the basis of coins that Nag rulers of Padmavati were BHIM, SAKAND VASU, GRAHSPATI VIBHU, BHAVNAM, DEV, VAYAGHRA AND GANPATI Of them the name of Ganpati figures in the script of pillar of Sumadargupta at Allahabad. Padmavati’s Nag Raja was Bhar Shiv who originally hailed from Bundelkhand. one fort of the script depicts that Miharkuls reign was upto Gwalior where Matrachet built one sun temple (Surya Mandir).

One stone carving reveals that amongst other famous rulers Pritihar Bhoj had occupied area around Gwalior fort from 836 to 882. Mahmood Ghaznavi launched first attack on Gwalior fort in 1021-1022 and after 4 days siege then Rajput ruler gifted 35 elephants to him and signed peace treaty in 1195-96 Mohd Gori attacked Lahang Dev of Gwalior and after treaty, he entrusted the job of annexing Gwalior to malik Bahaudin Tughlak who after one and a half years fearful fight conquered Gwalior fort. Later Kutbudin Abek. Commander-in-chief of Mohd, Gori appointed lltutamish as Ameer of this fort. From the year 1486 to 1526 Tomars ruled Gwalior Man Singh was the main ruler of this dynasty. He adorned the hilly fort with new buildings. He devised many irrigation channels. Of them Motijheel is prominent Vikramaditya was the last ruler of this dynasty who was killed in 1526 in the battle of Panipat.

Babar the Mugal when he became the ruler Delhi visited Gwalior on 26th September, 1528.He has beautifully described this place in his “BABARNAMA” Akbar seized Gwalior and till mid 1754 Gwalior and its fort was part of Mugal kingdom. As per Aine Akbari there was an iron mine in Gwalior and this town was a Taxal, from where copper coins were produced issued. This area came in the hands of Scindias and till India’s independence this was ruled by Scindia dynasty, Jiwaji Rao Scindia was the last ruler.

Coin Age Of Gwalior
According to Dr.H.B.Maheshwari the evidences pertaining to the prevalence of coins as a from of currency in the civilized society of Gwalior region are discernible in coin minting by ruler of the Naga dynasty The surrounding areas of the prosperous cities like Kutwar (Kuntalpur) Pawaya(Padmawati) and Narwar. located in this region coins minted by the rulers of the Naga dynasty during 1st -2nd century A.D are obtained in abundance.

We came to know for the first time of the emergence of the city of Gwalior, in the records of 7th 8th century But the evidences regarding the establishment of a mint at Gwalior Fort are deduced From the Gwalior Mint, casting Pupees in Silver and Paisa in copper On these coins the Name of the mint was distinctly inscribed as “GWALIOR” Islam Shah Suri not only kept on casting-coins in the Gwalior mint but also glorified this city as the capital of India by making it the capital of his empire.

Gwalior mint attained the level of national importance when the Mugal Emperors. Akbar Jahangeer and Shahjahan Managed the coinage of gild Mohars along with the minting of Silver and copper coins among the last Mugal rulers. Aurangzeb, Mohammed Shah and Shah Alam kept on minting gold and silver coins in this mint till 1761.

After the second battle of Panipat Mahadji Shinde Symbolizing a new epoch with the advent of Marathas. continued to mint gold, silver and copper Coins, which bore his dispicious symbol i.e. the sword and the flower as mint mark of Gwalior. Daulat Rao, the next Ruler of the Shinde Dynasty, shifting his capital from Ujjain to Gwalior founded a new city which in course of time.Came to be known as Lashkar. He with a view to meet the requriements of his vast empire. Set up another mint at’Danaoli’ in the new city of Gwalior.

During the reign of Daulat Rao and that of the rulers posterior to him – Rani Baija Bai, Janko Rao and jiyaji Rao coins would be minted in more than 10 mints for use in Gwalior state it is important to note here that gold coins would be minted only in the mint of the Gwalior Fourt the other mints i.e those of Ujjain, narwar Sheopur, Shadausa, Bairagarh, ishagarh Chanderi and videsha, as the evidences show, were employed only for the minting of coins of silver and copper: Where as at Jawad and Rajoud, evidences concerning the coinage only of copper coins have been obtained so for.

After 1925 Gwalior state started to mint coins worth a pie, Half paisa and Two paisa respectively. in order to fulfil further requirements, coins authorised issued by British India would be used. Coins of Gwalior state were wNdly in use with in its territories till 1950.

Sufi Sant Mohd.ghos
Hazart MOhd.Ghos is at the highest peak amongst Sufis in connection with Salaris of Middle era of India. In his time he was being addressed as Ghos Mohd Ghos is author of many books of which.” GULZARE ABRAR” is very famous.This great Darvesh was bom on 6th Rajab Friday 907 hijri at Ghazipur. U.P As per intzan Ullah Sahab he is said to have born in 890 Hijri.

“Mankbe Ghosia” much talked about Granth of 16th Century written by Fazal Ali Satari has ascribed that the full Name Of Ghos Sahib was Hamid-ud-din Mohd.Ghos. Writer Fazal Ali, a contemporary of akbar in his book ” KULYATE GWALIOR ” WHICH is recognised as an old historic book on Gwalior, has written that except Gousal Box who was the last Ghos there had been no Ghos. came into being after him.it is crystal clear that Ghos is not the name but a tile, Bahrul Hayat. jawahar-e-Khamsa. Kabide Makhajan, Kanjul Vahida, etc.

As per Dr.Harihar Nivas Dwivedi Mohad Ghos visited Gwalior in 1523. After 4 years of his arrival. Afghan sardar Rahim Dad Sahib became the ruler of Gwalior. Being influenced by Ghos Sshib Mughal emperor Babar paid tributes of HAZRI & AKIDAT in honour of Ghos Sahib. This histroic fact has been established by almost all the historians.Mohad ghos was blessed with 3 sons and 2 daughters. His eidest son was sheikh Abdulah whose tomp is situated near his own tomp of meerHadi sharif are situated in the tomp of Ghos sahib, bibi Zahida and Bibi Malha were his daughters.

As per Barbare Akber, when Army general of Babar reached Gwalior with his forces, then Subedar of Gwalior tatar khan. refused to surrender Gwalior fort to him But Daulat Rao the next ruler of the shinde dynasty shifting his capital from Uijain to Gwalior, founded a new city which in course of time, came to be known as lashkar.He with a view to meet the requrementts of his vast empire. set up another mint at’danaoli’ in the new city of Gwalior.

Ghos Sahib, who used to offer prayer in Gwalior Fourt without any blood-shed or battle could persuade to hand over Gwalior fort to soidiers of Baber himself in his “BABARNAMA” has mentioned this occurrence in detail. This is said to be 933 Hijri 28th November.

Amongst Sattari sufi saints Ghos Sahib was such a saint whom emperors bowed their heads Humayun and Akbar be came his discipales. Famous poet Khadak Rai who was Bhat of Tomars has mentioned in his writngs that Akbar was very much devoted to Ghos Sahib and was so much influenced by Ghos sahib that on his advice Baber handed over reigns of India to Humayun. This fact can be read in book MADHUMALTI written by Mata Prased Gupta.

Afghan king sher-shan was annoyed with Ghos Sahib because of his blessings to Babur and Humanun and for this reason he had once sent an army to Gwalior to kill GHos Sahib. Once Ghos Sahib was compelled to kill 12000 soldiers of sher-shah Ghos sahib was pained at this incident Humayun had written a letter of apology to Ghos sahib for being harassed by sher-shah. This narrated at page 292 of “GULZAR-BABAR” Mohd Ghos was KAMIL of Mangal Stare, this pride could not be achieved by any other saint. Many historians have described- Akbar as disciple of Mohd Ghos Akbar, when he was not throned as Emperor, had come to Gwalior to meet Ghos Sahib in 966 Hijri After becoming emperor, he participated in MAHFILS of Ghos sahib and received his blessings The beautiful tomb of ghos sahib is an example of worid fame archaeological monument which was constructed in 38 years. This was constructed during the reign of Akbar by eldest son of Ghos Sahib under the supervision of Emperor of Emperor at the Government expense.

Ganga Das Ki Shala
Ganaga Das Ki Shala is one of the various construction in Gwalior Know For National Unity Sant Rameshwar Dayal Das of utila is Mahant of this place. As per his version when Emperor Akbar passed From GWALIOR in 16th Century. He met Gusai Shri Parmanand Swami.Akbar himself Came here and got Constructed a temple in 21.5 Bighas of land and 12 villages were attached to it as Jagir On this occasion.Emperror Akbar presented turban and sword to Mahant Ji as token of respeect.

In 1824 Mahant Ganga Das JI Was born in 9th generation of parmanand Ji in whose name is this temple and Shala On 18th June.1858 Rani Laxmi Bai who was seriously injured while fighting against Britishers and was surrounded by them.had requested that she should be given refuge as she would succumb to fatal injuries All this has historic background. Maharaj Gangadas promised to protect her.She requested that her dead body should not be handed over to Britishers.Maharaj gave her sacred Ganaga jal and after consuming that she succumbed to her injuries.450 Sadhus used to live there at that time Maharaj Ganaga das performed her last rites with the help of Sadhus. Thakur Raghunath Singh Kaptan.Krishan Ji Rao Bua, and one Pathan opted to live by the SANADHI of LAXMI BAI till their last.

British soldiers besieged Ganaga Das Ki Shala and in the battle 345 sadhus laid down their lives. While fighting with britishers Maharaj slipped towards banks of the Ganges. MAharah Jivaji Rao himself went to Maharaj Ganga Das Who expressed his annoyance to Scindia But after a span Maharaj Ganga Das Came back.

Hazarat Meer Badshah
Dargah of Hazrat Meer Badshah is situated at Maharaj bada in front of Municipal corporation main office in the heart of Gwalior city. He came to Gwalior 150 years ago. He treated people of all religions and castes alike. His Urs is celebrated/every year with great pomp & Show cherished desires of visitors to his Durgah seem to have been fulfilled. He was an elderly man of his time of Gwalior town.

Hazrat Mansoor Shah
Hazrat Mansoor Shah Sahib was the religious Guru of scindia dynasty. He belonged to Beed Z(Dist Aurangabad). Maratha Saedar Nagadji scindia was badly wounded in battle with Ahmed shah Abdali at panipat and after his defeat he was not traceable. scindia’s wife who was native of Beed met Hazrat Mansoor Shah Sufi the Great sant of that time and prayed for the search of her missing husband. He Could be traced by the blessings of Mansoor shah sahib.

After this Scindia used to keep visiting Mansoor Shah sahib and by his blessings Marathas Under leadership of scindia met success in northern India. Scindia invited Mansoor Shah Sahib to Gwalior but being 85 years old. he could not accept the invitation of Maharaja scindia.

But his son HABIB SHAH came to Gwalior who was bestowed with jagir by Scindia. Even today personnel effects Utensils, Choga, Khadao etc. have been perserved safely in Gorkhi near Bada urs of Man soor shah sahib is celebrated every year with great pomp and show by scindia royal family. At present MOHD.KHUSRO is the 8th pedigree of Mansoor Shah Sahib who is residing at campoo road of Gwalior city. RELIGIOUS GOODWILL OF GWALIOR

Late Maharaj Madhorao Scindia Ex-ruler of Gwalior State opted secular religious policy and respected all religions alike. On becoming ruler on 15-12-1894 and after attaining administrative powers, he started developing Gwalior. in that period many industries and business were started. Jivaji Cotton Mills was established in those days. MAJLIS-A_AAM and MAJLIS-A-KANOON were established where in democratic benefits could be availed by people at large. Scindia kept on touring India and abroad and kept on attempting for the development and benefit of Gwalior state. During his regime for the first time electricity came into being in 1905 for which he spent Rs. 3 lac at that time. With the advent of electricity this area begin to change in miraculous way.

In 19th century people of this area were infused with spirit of citizenship. In 1907-08 circles were created which included certain Mohallas where in a representative was elected who in turn recommended facilities in the public interest. By this there was sufficient increase in the public facilities. In Gwalior the feeling of relegious unity is quite old. In 16th century Raja Man Singh of Tomar dynasty proved his ideals by marrying Gujri Rani “Mrignayni” who belonged to a backward caste. Ex-ruler of Gwalior decided to nominate 7 Muslims to Praja Sabha and 2 to Rajya Sabha. 30% of Government jobs were given to them. In the regime of Maharaja Jiwaji Rao Scindia Muslims were given high posts; Commander-in-chief and important ministers were muslims. Efforts were made to maintain Hindu-Muslim unity in these days. Famous Bal Krishna Sharma “NAVIN” said in 1939-40 that British Government was bent upon spreading religious riots by initiating poisonous versions.

We both Hindu and Muslims have alike suffering. Our enemy is common i.e. British Govt. and their anti-religious policy. In Gwalior State Sultan of After married a Hindu lady and thus presented example of Hindu muslim unity. In Gwalior Division, Pitambara Peeth in Datia city is an important Hindu religious place. Ex- ruler of Datia tried to carve a Muslim world fame wrestler Gama Pahalwan who is cited today with great pride. Historic Gwalior fort is a living example which signifies people of various religious faiths. There exist old Jain temple, historic Teli ka Mandir and many a tombs and graveyards of well known Muslim Sants and Fakirs. There exists a beautiful Gurudwara of northern India. There are 57 feet high idol of God Adinath and hundred beautiful idols after carving the walls of the fort. There are 3 main tombs of great Sufi Sants Hazrat Mohd.Ghos Sahib, Khwaja Kanoon Sahib and Baba Kapur Sahib in Gwalior city which are respected by citizens of all sects and religions. The tomb of great Sufi Sant Hazrat Mohd. Ghos Sahib of 16th Century is not only known for the needy, but at the same time is being visited by people as tourist spot.

Late Maharaja Madhorao Scindia in 1920 had got constructed Moti Masjid Gopal Mandir, Gurudwara. Theosophical lodge and church in phool Bagh Campus and thus he provided same status and respect to all religions. since times of scindia all celebrate together utsav of Ganesh, Tajyai of Moharam, Holi ID and diwali for the last 5 centuries Hindu-muslim Unity was founded. Spirt of brother-hood was fortified during past 75 years. by the efforts of late scindia this area is known as centre of Shanti-Sadbhavna (peace and good will) in the whole of the country where every citizen is first a human being then he is hindu, Muslim, sikh or a christian.