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The Print
12-06-2025
- Politics
- The Print
BJP slams Yunus govt ‘inaction' after Tagore mansion attacked in Bangladesh—'Islamists sending message'
On Tuesday, a mob reportedly vandalised the house, now a museum, in Sirajganj, Bangladesh, and assaulted the museum director, only two days after an altercation between a visitor and the museum staff over parking fees escalated into a local protest. The mob targeted the heritage site, including an auditorium, following which the authorities formed a three-member committee to investigate the matter. The police have reportedly booked 50 persons so far. At a press conference, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said, 'The behaviour of the Bangladesh interim government of Muhammad Yunus is not appropriate. It has taken no action so far. It could not protect such a significant international monument. A deplorable message goes out to the world. The BJP condemns this behaviour.' New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has attacked the Muhammad Yunus-led Bangladesh interim government for its 'inaction' after an attack on the ancestral home of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore on 10 June. The BJP criticised Yunus Thursday for failing to save the UNESCO-protected Rabindra Kachharibari from a 'pre-planned attack' by Islamists, with the incident turning into a diplomatic flashpoint. Sambit Patra, however, said that the members of Jamaat-e-Islami and Hefazat-e-Islam were suspected to be behind the attack. Calling the incident an ideological attack on the ideology of Tagore, Patra said, 'Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore was no ordinary figure. He was not just a literary icon; he was a multifaceted individual who made a significant contribution to the world. He was a man with a personality that went beyond borders.' BJP leader and West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, on the other hand, pointed fingers at Khaleda Zia's Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Chhatra Shibir activists for the vandalism. 'The sacred legacy of our most precious Kobiguru Rabindranath Thakur was desecrated in Sirajganj, Bangladesh, where a mob led by BNP and Chhatra Shibir activists vandalized the historic Rabindra Kachari Bari,' Adhikari wrote in an X post. He also added political colour to his comments. Comparing the Mamata Banerjee-led government and the Yunus government and accusing both of giving space to radical forces, he warned, 'This is a wake-up call for the Hindus of West Bengal. When extremist forces gain ground, they spare no one; not even a figure revered worldwide like Tagore.' BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya wrote on X: 'The mob raised hateful slogans against Tagore, shattered windows, and destroyed furniture—an open assault on Bengal's cultural soul … Whether it is attacks on temples, disruption of Hindu livelihoods, or the suppression of age-old traditions—Bengal's civilisational core is under siege. Culture, identity, and faith—all are being targeted.' Pre-planned attack 'Today, the topic is Bangladesh. We are not intruding on the international domain. However, it is about Rabindranath Tagore, so the BJP takes it very seriously and sensitively. His ancestral house in Bangladesh was attacked and damaged,' Sambit Patra told the media, adding, 'His Kachharibari, built by his grandfather, was attacked.' Patra further alleged, 'We are getting to know that the people of Jamaat-e-Islami and Hefazat-e-Islam carried out this attack. It is coming to light that this was a pre-planned attack. For five days, they planned the attack on the house of Rabindranath Tagore, who was the foundation and pillar of our civilisation and culture of Bengal, so that they could send a big message to the world.' Since Yunus took the reins in Bangladesh after the fall of Awami League leader and ex-PM Sheikh Hasina, the New Delhi-Dhaka relations have deteriorated, with the former accusing Dhaka of failing to protect minorities or check anti-Hindu violence. Moreover, India and the external affairs minister have condemned Yunus for calling Northeast India 'landlocked' during his trip to China and did not take his meeting with the deputy speaker of Nepal in good faith. 'We are the only guardians of the ocean,' Yunus also said during his China visit in March this year while inviting Chinese investment to Bangladesh. He went further, suggesting that the geographical placement of China offered a 'huge possibility', claiming the region could become 'an extension of the Chinese economy'. 'From Bangladesh, you can go anywhere you want. The ocean is our backyard,' Yunus declared. On Wednesday, Yunus also voiced his problem with India. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had brushed aside his request to prevent Sheikh Hasina from making political statements from Indian soil, where she had landed after waves of anti-quota protests drove her out of Bangladesh on 5 August 2024. (Edited by Madhurita Goswami) Also Read: Bangladesh elections in April 2026, Yunus announces in televised address
Metro
07-06-2025
- Metro
Peru should be your next travel destination – and not for Machu Picchu
While most of us are familiar with Machu Picchu, the country that lays claim to this wonder of the world has only recently come to the fore of global travel consciousness. Drawn by the ancient Incan citadel, a growing number of travellers are waking up to the wealth of attractions that Peru has to offer. Blending indigenous, Spanish, and international influences, the rich cultural fabric of this South American destination rewards visitors with breathtaking landscapes, wondrous wildlife and fascinating history — plus top-tier hotels and some of the finest cuisine in the region. Here, Metro makes the case for Peru, with six reasons it should be next on your holiday hit list. Kicking off with the obvious big ticket item, this stone fortress is perched some 2,500 metres above sea level, shrouded in clouds, and ringed by a crown of mountain peaks. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Regarded as one of the world's most important archaeological sites, Machu Picchu is UNESCO-protected and was chosen as one of the 'New Seven Wonders of the World' in a worldwide internet poll in 2007. Cut through the queues and get to the heart of it by joining a Mountain Lodges of Peru walking journey to this historic icon. The prestigious locally owned and operated Andean Lodge travel organisation offers a unique route paired with expert guides to facilitate the best possible experience, traversing uncrowded trails and traditional communities before reaching the jaw-dropping ruins themselves. For proximity to these ruins, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo is your check-in of choice. Sitting in the shadows of the Lost City, the luxury lodge resembles a quaint Andean village with terraced hills, waterfalls, stone pathways and only 83 whitewashed suites tucked into the lush cloud forest. The idyllic eco-resort also offers the perfect pre or post-Machu Picchu experience: a traditional Andean sauna. Constructed from bamboo and fresh eucalyptus leaves, hot stones are heated in a fireplace at its centre, over which more eucalyptus leaves are placed. Guests sit in candlelight, inhaling the vapours. Post-sweat, you can jump into the natural spring water pond outside for a refreshing dip. Winning the 'world's leading culinary destination' title for six years running, Peru and its food – a fusion of tradition and exciting ingredients – has exploded onto the world stage. And at the centre of this explosion is the country's capital, Lima. Legitimately a global gourmet hotspot, the 'World's 50 Best Restaurants' guide puts Lima in the same league as New York and London after featuring it more times than any other city. To experience the lauded fare firsthand, book a table at Kjolle. The first solo restaurant from celebrity chef, Pia Leon, who rose to fame as the head chef of Central (named the 'World's Best Restaurant' in 2023) a tasting menu here is truly money well spent if you want a celebration of Peruvian produce and its culinary history. For a double whammy of haute hotel and haute cuisine, base yourself at the prestigious Hotel B. Easily the coolest check-in in town — and Lima's only Relais & Chateaux property — this restored colonial mansion turned 20-suite, boutique hotel is set in the bohemian, artsy district of Barranco. True to its location, the hotel houses a unique art collection with over 300 original installations. Food-wise, the in-house restaurant focuses on native ingredients and local delicacies (including crispy guinea pig). After dinner, head upstairs to the rooftop terrace bar and sink a few pisco sours while the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean. For a grassroots look at the culinary aspect of the capital, book a spot on Viator's Food & Art: Lima Colours and Flavours Walking Tour. A half-day walking tour through the city's Chorillos and Barranco neighbourhoods takes in top sights and local markets, with pit stops to sample delicious, authentic Peruvian snacks and staple dishes. Situated in southeastern Peru among dramatic Andean panoramas, the culturally rich city of Cusco is one of Peru's most popular destinations. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the mountain town is a medley of ancient Inca temples and monuments, colonial architecture and modern buildings. A destination in itself, it's also a great base for exploring nearby Inca sites such as the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Base yourself at Inkaterra La Casona, a 16th-century, former colonial manor (one of the first Spanish buildings in Cusco) that is now a 5-star hotel located steps from the main square. The 11 suites are set around a Spanish courtyard, replete with antique furniture, pre-Columbian textiles and original murals. Each room features plush touches such as freestanding tubs and heated floors to soothe tired feet after a day of trekking. A small yet perfectly formed spa offers bespoke treatments. Top tip: the 'De-Stress' treatment comes highly recommended. A small dining room and terrace serves a delectable menu showcasing local ingredients, including slow-roasted merlot lamb shanks and Andean trout. For an immersion into Cusco's best street grub, snack and sightsee on a Curious Monkey Food Tour. Locally owned and operated, this small group tour offers a tasty lesson in the culture and traditions of Peru. Over half a day, expert guides connect you with food vendors, from the oldest empanada stand in the city, to a lauded, local Peruvian coffee and chocolate emporium. Come evening, meat-lovers should beeline to Cusco's best steakhouse, Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse where a selection of meats — including 20 hour slow-cooked pork ribs and delicious alpaca — are presented on volcanic hot stone platters and marinated in drool-worthy sauces. While Machu Picchu gets all the hype (and the tourist traffic), there are ways to get off the tourist trail to visit small, relatively unknown Incan temples, that you'll likely have to yourself. Peru is set for a record-breaking tourist year in 2025, and it pays to plan ahead. Viator offers a horseback tour that takes in four temples in the nearby Sacsayhuaman Archeological Park. The half-day guided adventure follows a portion of the Inca Trail and traverses spectacular Andean countryside and temples. You'll learn about religious sites and Andean culture from your guide, and even join in an ancient ritual to experience the mysticism of the Andes yourself. History lessons and cultural encounters aside, exploring near-deserted temples on the back of a horse will make anyone feel like Indian Jones. Machu Picchu is the most visited site in South America and the iconic Inca Trail to its boundaries is, by proxy, heaving with tourists. Annually, millions upon millions flock to the mysterious citadel via the well-worn hiking trail. It's crowded, pricey and hectic. For those who want to experience the dramatic and unspoiled Peruvian Andes without jostling for elbow space, look no further than the Lares trail. Mountain Lodges of Peru offers the ultimate crowd-free multi-day alternative to reaching Machu Picchu on their Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure to Machu Picchu experience — a journey that takes guests through the ancient history, living culture, and magnificent landscapes of Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Expert guides tailor your experience from a daily list of activities and cultural exploration options as you wind through remote communities, farms and friendly faces. Next, as the afternoon hits, you will settle into one of the eco-lodges that sit along the route. Here, your luggage awaits you, along with a specially prepared dinner made using fresh ingredients, alongside spacious beds and personal hot tubs with views overlooking the landscape. It's post-hike pampering at its absolute best. For nature lovers, a journey to Peru is not complete without exploring the Amazon. Winding through countless jungles, it is the world's largest rainforest. No river is bigger in volume than the mighty Amazon; its banks are home to some 40,000 plant species (with 16,000 types of trees alone) and over 5,000 animal species. It's this immense biodiversity that makes the Peruvian Amazon an absolute must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. And you don't need to have the prowess of Bear Grylls to do it. Delfin Amazon Cruises offers visitors the chance to sail the waters of the Amazon on three and four-night cruises on its 42-passenger ship, the Delfin III. More Trending If you've always wanted to see this storied jungle, this is the way to do it — with great food, expert naturalist guides, activities such as piranha fishing, and a private cabin where you can rest and refuel. Skiffs carry passengers out on jungle hikes, bird-watching expeditions and even river swimming and kayaking. All the while, guides will help you spot everything from endemic pink river dolphins and piranhas, to sloths and jaguars. No machete or mosquito netting required. MORE: Europe's 'nowhere place' is a quiet Italian gem with flights from £17 MORE: TUI relaunches UK flights to forgotten year-round sunshine destination after 3 years MORE: I tried to do Cannes on £30 a day – a champagne town on a Fanta budget
India.com
28-05-2025
- India.com
The Most Beautiful Hill Stations Near Kolkata For a Quick Escape During Weekends
The cultural center of India known as Kolkata exists as a place that showcases vibrant festivals and holds rich heritage while offering a fast-paced urban way of life. The hot and moist conditions of the city sometimes push residents toward fast nature-based escapes from the area. Good luck awaits at multiple charming hill stations which can be reached by car or train a short distance from Kolkata. The destinations provide visitors with stunning views combined with peaceful surroundings together with relief from city life. Visitors seeking restoration will find the following list of stunning hill stations that reside near Kolkata. 1. Darjeeling: The Queen of Hills Darjeeling stands as India's most popular hill station which exists at a 520-kilometer distance from Kolkata. The 'Queen of Hills' title accurately describes this place because visitors can see both Himalayan snow peaks and tea plantation fields combined with heritage buildings. Travelers can experience the UNESCO-protected Darjeeling Himalayan Railway ('Toy Train') to enjoy a traditional mountain railway journey. Visitors should experience dawn at Tiger Hill since it offers breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga which ranks as the world's third-tallest peak. 2. Kalimpong: A Tranquil Retreat Kalimpong rests in the Eastern Himalayas where it occupies a position about 550 kilometers distant from Kolkata. The hill town provides an optimal environment for people looking to escape urban pressures. Zang Dhok Palri Phodang together with Durpin Dara form two of the many monasteries that attract visitors to admire their religious sites and mountainscapes. Tourists interested in nature can discover the Neora Valley National Park which protects both rare plant species and endangered red panda along with their ecosystems. Those who visit Kalimpong can find pleasure in both its flower nursery complexes and traditional handcrafted items available in local markets. 3. Mirik: A Hidden Gem Travelers tend to overlook Mirik although its 550 kilometer distance from Kolkata fails to diminish its status as a hidden gem for tourists. Visitors can experience lake activities such as boating while walking the promenade that surrounds Sumendu Lake in this charming hill station. The setting of Mirik consists of both orange orchards and cardamom plantations which provide visitors with a revitalizing experience. Bokar Gompa presents itself as a quiet Buddhist monastery that visitors must experience during their trip. 4. Gangtok: Gateway to Sikkim The provincial capital status of Sikkim belongs to Gangtok despite its minimal 600 kilometers distance from Kolkata where locals enjoy weekend trips. From its location at 1650 meters Gangtok shows breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga range and vibrant Tibetan culture. You can find the Rumtek Monastery as well as Banjhakri Falls while admiring the beauty of Tsomgo Lake in this region. The adventure lovers can participate in activities like trekking while river rafting and going on yak safaris. 5. Dooars: Nature's Paradise Those who want to unite their affection for hills and wildlife should consider Dooars as their destination. The territory extends across dense forests, rolling hills and tea estate expenses situated 450 kilometers away from Kolkata. Visitors to this location find the Jaldapara National Park with Gorumara National Park as their principal draws because both facilities allow rhino elephant viewings with jeep rides and elephants. Nature enthusiasts find Dooars to be a beautiful place because of its refreshing climate and its lush natural environment. 6. Lava and Loleygaon: Offbeat Escapes Lava and Loleygaon offer distinctive destinations which can be found in proximity to Kolkata. The two locations exist more than 600 kilometers beyond Kolkata inside the unexplored areas of West Bengal. The town of Lava holds a special place thanks to its close position to Neora Valley National Park but what truly distinguishes it is its unmatched views of the Greater Himalayan mountain range. The main attraction of Loleygaon consists of its famous canopy walk and suspension bridge. The locations serve as ideal spots for nature-focused tourists who seek to experience sustainable interaction with the environment. 7. Pelling: A Blend of Adventure and Spirituality Pelling which lies about 600 kilometers west of Kolkata offers visitors the advantage of being near popular landmarks in Sikkim. Tourists visit this location to witness both the Kanchenjunga range as well as Pemayangtse Monastery and Sangachoeling Monastery along with their spiritual significance. The area provides both trekking opportunities towards Khecheopalri Lake and a chance to explore the remains of Rabdentse Palace. Families with solo travelers find the relaxed atmosphere of Pelling to be perfect for either group. Conclusion The mountain destinations surrounding Kolkata serve various purposes because they welcome visitors who wish to experience adventures and nature together with individuals who want peaceful moments. Three destinations in northeastern India offer visitors the chance to experience fresh tea tasting in Darjeeling followed by meditating in Kalimpong's monasteries while sightseeing different views of Gangtok and the Himalayas. Travelers from Kolkata can now access hill stations more conveniently because of their accessibility by road and rail and commercial flights. Travelers should bring luggage to escape city commotion while exploring the peaceful natural surroundings of these magical elevations.
India.com
27-05-2025
- India.com
Exploring The 7 Underrated Hill Stations Close To Indore
With a well known history and culture, Indore is the largest city in Madhya Pradesh and has a lot to offer in its open markets. It is a well established tourist spot in central India, but it has a lot of unrecognized best hill stations which are hidden gems. These hill stations offer you serenity on another level as well as mesmerizing views. In this article we will cover seven of the best hidden hill stations around Indore and their individual stories. 1. Pachmarhi: The Queen of Satpura Pachmarhi is known to be the most famous hill station in the state but it is surrounded with several other famous unexplored hill stations. Also, it is roughly 190 kilometers away from Indore. strap yourself in because we are about to give you reasons aka known facts of why it is termed as a queen. Pachmarhi is enriched with beauty as it has astonishing green forests, majestic and peaceful waterfalls, and caves which date back to ancient times. It is further surrounded by a UNESCO-protected biosphere meaning no exploitation of nature will take place. It has remained a quiet spot for trekking, bird watching, and even for family visits to the Pandav caves and jata shankar temple. The amazing beauty and pleasant weather make it the perfect spot for a weekend trip. 2. Mandu: Blending History with Nature Around 96 km from Indore, Mandu is famous for its rich history as well as for being a scenic hill station. The Vindhya Range is home to Mandu, which has several remnants of mosques, palaces, and Tanks that speak of love and bravery. While in Mandu, one must visit Jahaz Mahal, Rani Roopmati Pavilion, and Baz Bahadur Palace. From Mandu, one can overlook the Narmada Valley while basking in the dense surrounding green forests. The beautiful sunsets and tranquil nature offer a peaceful break from the chaos of the city. 3. Satpura National Park: The Nature Republic Known primarily as a wildlife sanctuary, Satpura National Park is also one of the most underrated hill station getaways located around 200 kilometers from Indore. The park is part of the Satpura Range and it boasts rough terrains, deep gorges to explore, and rich flora and fauna. Visitors have the option to participate in jungle safaris, canoe rides on the Denwa River, and even go hiking. For those in search of some peace and solitude in nature, Satpura is a superb alternative. 4. Omkareshwar: Hills with a Touch of Spirituality Omkareshwar is a sacred region located at a distance of 77 Kilometers from Indore. The town has the shape of 'Om' and is encircled by Narmada river, adding to the spirituality of this temple town. One can also visit Omkareshwar Temple from where you can take a ropeway or trek up to the town to receive an all around view of the river and the valleys. Relaxation lovers appreciate the calmness, providing a refreshing break from their city life. 5. Choral Dam: Scenic Photography Spot Like most places in Indore, this is also about 45 kilometers from the city. Choral Dam is a dam and not strictly a hill station but offers a hill station experience. The dam can be best used for picnics, boating, and capturing pictures or memories. The place transformed into a nature lover's green paradise can be enjoyed during the monsoon season and there is plenty of greenery for adventure lovers also. 6. Tincha Waterfall: Nature's Secret Gem Positioned roughly 50 kilometers from Indore, Tincha Waterfall is hidden in the Aravalli Hills, which makes it another unexplored site that is worth visiting. Fans of waterfalls would love this waterfall's beauty during every season, but monsoons are the cherry on top when the waterfall turns captivating. The dense forest and rocky areas at Tincha provide good chances for short nature walks and escaping into the wild. For those who are looking for a one-day trip from Indore, these spots are a fantastic choice. 7. Kanha Tiger Reserve: Beyond Wildlife Tourism While many people are well aware about the Kanha Tiger Reserve because of its large number of tigers, the reserve also has breathtaking rolling hills along with majestic meadows that make it a great spot to visit. It is located roughly 280 kilometers from Indore, which is the closest city. Kanha is located in the Maikal Range of the Satpuras. The varying ecosystems like bamboo groves, grasslands, and steep hill forests are famous in the reserve. These features make the reserve a great place for ecotourism. People can enjoy the beauty in the landscape and the animals like deers, wild boar and many birds from the jeep on the safari tour. Why Choose These Underrated Hill Stations? Why not visit hill stations close to Indore instead of well-known places like Shimla, Manali, or Ooty? These underrated spots are as exquisite as these famous destinations, but these lesser-known hill stations face no tourist congestion. These places are perfect for those who admire history, the mountains, or just want to escape to somewhere quiet. Furthermore, they are conveniently close to Indore for anyone looking to make quick getaways or plan vacations. Tips for Visiting These Hill Stations Plan Accordingly: You want to make sure to visit in the winter months, such as October to February (or for some people, the monsoons from July to September), assuming you like the cold. Pack Accordingly: Bring walking shoes for rough terrain, light woolen clothes when it gets too chilly, and raincoats/shelters in the case you choose to go during the monsoon. Respect the Locals: Dress appropriately when visiting Omkareshwar and other places that are of religious importance, as there are local customs that need to be honored. Stay Hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water when going on hikes, exploring hilly areas, or checking out the Satpura and Mandus ruins. To sum up, these underrated hill stations around Indore provide a stunning combination of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure activities. While Mandu has its historical charm, Satpura is known for its wildlife. These places will always create fond memories for those willing to explore. So the next time you're taking a trip from Indore, keep these hidden gems in mind. Indore will never be the same again!
Malaysian Reserve
24-05-2025
- Malaysian Reserve
Club Offers Released on May 25, 2025
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