A TRIP ROUTE
IT IS WORTH SEEING
Probably many people have heard about the complex of medieval temples in Khajuraho in the north of India decorated with reliefs depicting bold erotic scenes. It turns out that the subject of sex was also popular in the south of the country. The tower gate of the Virupaksha temple in Hampi is decorated with dozens of erotic reliefs. What can often shock the average European is not unusual for Hindus. The elaborately made reliefs clearly show the influence of tantrism, a religious and philosophical system, which is very popular in India. He says that satisfying basic physical needs is a guarantee of defense against evil spirits and ensuring salvation. Bhoga or sexual satisfaction and yoga or spiritual experiences, are considered by tantterians to be necessary to achieve the state of nirvana, i.e. the expiration of suffering. Therefore, when admiring these monuments, you should get rid of all prejudices and look at the reliefs for works celebrating the joy of life.INTERESTING FACTS
The figure of the Portuguese sailor Vasco da Gama is associated with Goa, who was the first to reach India by sea from Europe, allowing Europeans to trade freely with Asia. Da Gama contributed to the success of Portugal and the rapid growth of its colonial power. He gained great popularity among his countrymen, and his deeds were sung by poets and itinerant singers. The Portuguese national epic "Lusjada" by Luís de Camoes is largely about his journey. Vasco da Gama, after numerous peregrinations, settled in Goa at the end of his life. For his discoveries and his subsequent activities for the benefit of the Portuguese crown, he was generously awarded by King Jan III, who gave him the title of Count Vidigueir and numerous estates. The famous "Viceroy's Arch" through which the main road from the port to Old Goa led was built by the grandson of the explorer, to commemorate the achievements of the famous grandfather.IT IS WORTH KNOWING
The Roma, commonly called Gypsies, come from India and form a diaspora living in most countries in the world. The modern Roma population is estimated at around 8–15 million. Data from genetic studies conducted on various Roma populations prove their relationship to the Indian Rajput caste, which originated as an army of mercenary warriors. As a result of Muslim invasions between the 8th and 10th centuries, the ancestors of the Roma left India. However, the questions remain in the sphere of hypotheses whether the Roma themselves constituted a mercenary army or rather a technical service fighting army, as was the case in their later history? Was their movement west related to falling into jasyr, or was it rather a migration for economic reasons, or did they constitute one migration wave, or were there several such waves? The anti-Gypsy prejudices existing in many European societies meant that the Roma often became victims of repression and bloody persecution. Currently, the number of Roma living in Poland is estimated at approximately 13,000 people.March 2010
We decided to go on a trip to India thanks to the attractive promotion of Itaka Travel Agency. We bought a week-long Karnataka tour and a 7-day stay in Goa. It was a great idea, because sightseeing, due to the very long distances and high temperature, took its toll on us.
India was our first destination in such a remote region of the world. Little did we know about the history and culture of this ancient country, and our knowledge of modern India and its inhabitants did not differ from the common stereotypes. Fortunately, Karnataka is not as crowded with tourists as the northern regions of India. The locals are friendly, direct and curious to newcomers. In many places in the provinces, we were the highlight of the day, arousing the curiosity and interest of the natives. After the trip, our perception of India has not changed much, but we have found out that the everyday life of the Hindus is not as colorful as their costumes.People
For Europeans, the people of India are so exotic that virtually every photo taken of them is original and worth presenting. Interestingly, we are as exotic to them as they are to us. This can be seen especially in those regions of India that have so far avoided mass tourism, such as Karnataka. However, what is most striking when photographing the indigenous people is a natural smile and joy of life, despite the poverty in which many of them live.
Elephants
Unfortunately, we did not manage to see wild elephants in their natural habitat. We only attended a commercial show for tourists with these animals. Whatever you think about it, it was an interesting experience, especially touching the head with the trunk, which supposedly ensures a long and happy life. On the other hand, a ride on the back of an elephant, and especially a swim with this giant in the river, is an experience that will remain in your memory for a long time.
Dandeli National Park
In the Dandeli National Park you can admire tigers, leopards, elephants, antelopes and many rare species of reptiles and birds. However, as the guide told us, it all depends on luck. Apparently we missed it, because during the jeep safari we saw only monkeys and peacocks. We also did not experience the thrill of rafting on the foamy waters of the Kali River, because the program of the trip included only a boat ride on a quiet section of this river.
Badami
The visit to Badami was our first contact with the culture and history of India. I must admit that the temples carved out of solid rock during the reign of the Calukja dynasty (6th - 7th century) make an impressive impression. However, what caught our attention the most was the compatible coexistence of ancient monuments with the modern city. The first thing we saw coming down the hill were women doing laundry in the emerald waters of the lake right next to the Bhutanatha temple.
Hampi
The Vijayanagar ruins near the village of Hampi are considered equal to Petra in Jordan thanks to their huge structures among high rock piles. However, what currently arouses the greatest emotions of tourists visiting Widźajanagar, i.e. the City of Victory, are dozens of reliefs on the gopura of the Wirupaksha temple depicting erotic scenes. The realistic reliefs dating back several centuries also serve local kids as part of their sex education.
Belur
The Hoysal Lord Vishnuwardhana erected the temple of Chennakeshava in the capital of his state, Belur to commemorate the victory on the Foreheads. Today, the exotic names of medieval Indian kingdoms tell us little, but the temple itself impresses with its elaborate carvings covering every free space. The incarnations of the Gods Vishnu and Shiva are especially charming in the rays of the afternoon sun.
Majsur
This small city for India overwhelms every visitor from the West. There are many Hindu temples here, and an additional attraction is the fact that in one of them, Chamundeshwari , you can watch people praying. However, what attracts tourists the most is its colonial character. The extravagant palace of Maharaja Amba Wilas, in beauty and size, surpasses even similar monuments in Rajasthan.
Goa - Cansaulim
Cansaulim is one of the many holiday resorts in Goa on the shores of the Arabian Sea. We relaxed here after a week-long road trip. We didn't feel like sightseeing anymore and only went to Old Goa . We were more attracted to picturesque villages and wide, sandy beaches where, apart from tourists, the usual sight, next to tourists, were local fishermen bustling with work and...cows.