As we step into January, it is time for one of the major festivals of the Hindu calendar, Makar Shankranti. A harvest festival that celebrates nature, growth, renewal and transformation, this day also marks the transition of the Sun into the Makar zodiac sign. As the sun embarks on its northward journey aka Uttarayan, it signifies the end of winter and the beginning of longer days ahead. And one city that celebrates the festival in its true glory is the capital of Gujarat, Ahmedabad. Also called Amdavad, it is India’s first UNESCO Urban World Heritage Site. So, while you savour festive goodies like sesame- jaggery ladoos and gajak and fly kites, there is plenty to see and do in this city located in western India. Read on to find out more.
Chasing Heritage
Ahmedabad which is located on the banks of the Sabramati river traces its roots to the early 15th century. The city was a significant hub for trading and was the centre of the textile industry. Often called the Manchester of India, the city boasts of a rich architectural heritage with ornate Hindu temples and exquisite mosques. The old quarter is a unique walled city and is home to buildings crafted in the exclusive Indo Saracenic style of architecture. It is also houses residential clusters which are locally known as pols. These self-contained neighbourhoods are replete with community wells, chabutaras for feeding birds and central squares or chowks where people meet, greet and socialize. They even have secret passages! With people of all communities residing here, it is indeed a lesson in harmonious living.
The best way to witness all this and soak in the rich culture and native traditions is by taking a heritage walk organized by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (A.M.C.). It starts at the Swaminarayan temple and ends at the Jamma Masjid and lasts for about tow hours. On the walk one can view the different dimensions of the city including its sustainable living practices, spirit of secularity and its formidable business culture. Often referred to as the ‘Mandir to Masjid’ walk, this one is a highly recommended activity for the discerning traveller.
Diverse Attractions
It is well known that Ahmedabad was a city that was central to India’s freedom struggle. After all, the city was the home of Mahatma Gandhi aka The Father of the Nation. Spend some time at the city’s famous Sabramati Ashram which was originally the residence of the Mahatma and his spouse Kasturba Gandhi. While here one can see the original rooms of the home including Gandhiji’s room and the kitchen. There is an entire section dedicated to heritage charkas or spinning looms on which khadi fabric is woven and includes photographs, information boards and panels which contain a wealth of information on the weaving process. The Ashram also has a museum which has displays of Gandhiji’s letters, photographs and information related to his role in India’s struggle for freedom. It is key to note that the Sabramati Ashram was the point where the historic Dandi March or Salt Satyagraha originated in 1930. All in all, it is a great place that exudes vibes of patriotism and is a wonderful source of inspiration and motivation for all visitors.
If you are fan of museums, Ahmedabad does not disappoint. Apart from the indigo museum and the calico museum of textiles, head over to the Vichaar or vessel museum in the city if you are looking to visit something really novel. The museum is a treasure trove of antique and rare vessels which includes milk cans, pots, pans, dowry boxes, nutcrackers and even inkwells. It is in fact the only museum in the world to have such a large repository of domestic paraphernalia that spans generations and has been painstakingly curated into categories.
Haven for Architecture Lovers
Ahmedabad has a number of splendid Vavs or stepwells which served as not only sources of water but also as resting places centuries ago. They feature stunning architecture in the form of ornate carvings, resplendent arches and ornamented walls. The general structure of a stepwell includes a central square or a rectangle shaped well accessible by steps on all sides. Apart from providing water, these stepwells were places of social gathering especially for women who came to fetch water, a venue for celebrating festivals and also served the cause of travellers who rested here between journeys. When in the city do visit the Adalaj stepwell built in 1498 for its breathtaking Indo-Islamic architecture. The 15th century Dada Harir Vav is yet another awe-inspiring structure worth a visit.
Apart from Jumma Masjid which is again a magnificent structure known for its superlative architecture, visit Sarkhej Roza which is a prominent Indo-Saracenic architectural complex that is replete with tombs, mosques and tanks. There are several elements of Persian, Islamic, Hindu and Jain architecture and is a special historic monument right in the centre of the city.Before you leave the city, do not miss sampling some local fare which includes the delectable dhokla, thepla, khandvi, fafda-jalebi and dabeli.
