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India is one of the oldest continually habituated regions with a history dating back over 30,000 years. It has influences from diverse people from Africa, Central Asia and Europe and all this is reflected in the art, architecture and culture of the country. Many wondrous structures in India are awe-inspiring, and with efforts of UNESCO and the Architectural Survey of India (ASI), these are well-conserved. These structures showcase the genius of the people and hold immense cultural and historical significance. Let us look at the seven wonders of India in 2024.
India’s name is synonymous with this majestic structure, and it has become an enduring symbol of love around the world – it is the Taj Mahal. Commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is an immense white mausoleum whose construction started in 1632 AD and was completed in 1648 AD. The main mausoleum is built in the Mughal architectural style and is entirely built in white marble. The Taj Mahal is not just one of the seven wonders of India, but also the World. It is recognised for its architectonic beauty which has “a rhythmic combination of solids and voids that are concave and convex arches and domes that increases the aesthetic aspect.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal attracts millions of visitors annually. It symbolizes love, artistry, and architectural genius.
Located in the Shravanabelagola district in Karnataka, the statue of Lord Gomateshwara is an important pilgrimage centre for people practising Jainism. This statue is considered to be one of the tallest free-standing monolithic statues in the world. It was constructed in the year 981 CE under the Chamundaraya, a Ganga warrior. It was carved out of a single block of granite and stands atop the Vindhyagiri Hill. The colossal statue is visible from up to 30 km away and one has to climb 700 steps hewn in the rock-face to closely witness the tremendous marvel. With a calm demeanour, the statue reflects the idea of great strength, devoid of rage.
The Mahamastakabhisheka, a grand anointing ceremony held every 12 years, is a major event drawing pilgrims and tourists. The statue embodies the values of non-violence and asceticism central to Jainism.
A relic of one of India’s Golden Age, when she was called the “Golden Sparrow”, the Hampi Group of monuments are remnants of one of the capital cities of India’s richest empires – the Vijayanagara Empire. Encompassing an area of 4187.24 hectares, Hampi is located in the Tungabhadra basin in Bellary District, Central Karnataka. 1600 surviving monuments include forts, temples, shrines, gateways, stables, water structures etc. One can identify the suburban township that surrounded the large Dravidian temple complexes. It contains subsidiary shrines, bazaars, residential areas and tanks applying a unique hydraulic technology. One can observe the skilful and harmonious integration of the town and defence architecture with the surrounding landscape.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and structures, offering insights into the region’s cultural and economic prosperity.
Sri Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple is a Sikh pilgrimage site located in Amritsar, Punjab. The Gurudwara has openings on all four sides, symbolising that it is open to worshippers from all castes and creeds. The temple’s remarkable feature is its famous golden domes and gold covering on the upper floors. It is built on a man-made water body and decorated with rare paintings and marble sculptures. The temple is a blend of Mughal architectural styles and is home to the Sikh holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib. The Guru ka Langar serves free food to people from all walks of life and is entirely run by volunteers.
The temple epitomizes Sikh values of equality, service, and devotion. The Langar (community kitchen) feeds over 50,000 people daily, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion.
The Konark Sun Temple is located in Konark, Odisha and is a stunning example of ancient Indian architecture and engineering. It was Built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu Sun God, Surya. It is designed in the shape of a colossal chariot, with twelve pairs of intricately carved wheels drawn by seven horses. The wheels are functional as sundials and were used to tell time.
The Konark Sun Temple is renowned for its intricate and detailed carvings, depicting various aspects of daily life and Divine figures from Hindu mythology.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it reflects India’s mastery of temple architecture and devotion to solar worship.
The Nalanda University, located in present-day Bihar was one of the most renowned centres of learning in ancient India. It thrived from the 5th century CE to the 12th century CE and was one of the earliest residential universities in the world. It was established during the reign of the Gupta Empire and developed significantly under the influence of Emperor Kumaragupta I. The university was a prominent centre for Buddhist studies, attracting scholars from across Asia. In the present day, even in the ruined structure, one can identify a semblance of classrooms, student dormitories, silos etc.
Nalanda was a hub for Buddhist philosophy, logic, and metaphysics. Its teachings influenced scholars worldwide, making it a beacon of ancient education.
The Khajuraho Group of Monuments located in K Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, is a complex of Hindu and Jain temples that are renowned for their intricate architecture. The temples were built between 950 and 1050 CE during the Chandela regime and reflect mediaeval Indian architecture and artistic expression. The temple follows Nagara-style architecture, featuring birds, trees, deities, mythical creatures, and daily life scenes.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temples celebrate the interconnectedness of human life, spirituality, and art.
These seven wonders of India are not just architectural masterpieces; they are gateways to understanding the nation’s rich history, spirituality, and artistic prowess. Each wonder has a story to tell, a lesson to impart, and an experience to offer. Embark on this journey to witness the grandeur and immerse yourself in the heritage of India.
Yes, the Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. It was recognized in 2007 during the New7Wonders campaign for its stunning architecture and cultural significance.
The sixth wonder of India is the Nalanda University in Bihar. It is an ancient center of learning and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Seven Wonders of Karnataka are not officially defined, but notable landmarks include:
No, the Konark Sun Temple is not part of the Seven Wonders of the World. However, it is one of the Seven Wonders of India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its architectural brilliance.
Yes, there are various lists:
The Seven Wonders of India reflect the country’s rich cultural, spiritual, and architectural heritage. Each wonder tells a unique story of India’s history, from ancient universities and temples to grand monuments symbolizing love and devoti
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