History of Gandhinagar
In 1960 Bombay was divided into Gujarat and Maharashtra based on the linguistic lines. After division Ahmadabad was made the capital city of Gujarat and developed to make in line with other capital cities in India. H.K. Mewada and Prakash M Apte designed the new capital; foundation stone was laid on 1965. Capital city of Gujarat was shifted from Ahmadabad to Gandhinagar in 1971. Till 1980 city was known as Gandhian City as it was based on Gandhi’s concept and principles.
Geography of Gandhinagar
Gandhinagar is situated on the banks of Sabarmati River. Gandhinagar is approximately 25 kms from Ahmadabad and sister city of Dubai. Gandhinagar has an average elevation of 81 meters from sea level and spreads in 205 sq kms. Sabarmati River frequently dries up leaving only a small water stream. 54% of its land is covered with trees and plants, making it the tree capital of India.
Government and Administration of Gandhinagar
Gandhinagar has its own administrative body, “The Capital Project Division” formed in 1965 by Government of Gujarat. Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation which was set up on 16th March 2010 takes care of civic administration. City contributes one member to Indian Assembly and seven members to Gujarat Legislative assembly.
Language and Culture of Gandhinagar
Gandhinagar is known for its colorful culture, delicious authentic and Gujarati food. Gujarati food is mostly vegetarian and less spicy and sweet than other states. Many folk dances like Dandiya, Raas and Gabra are well known here. Raas is a very colorful and energetic dance which mainly depends on body language, expressions, eye contact and rhythm. Wood carving is an important craft, clearly visible in Temples, Palaces and even in daily uses. Gujarati is widely spoken in the city followed by Urdu, Sindhi, Hindi, English and Marathi.
Educational Institutes in Gandhinagar
Gujarat government has developed Knowledge Corridor in Gandhinagar, and it is now the Education Hub of India. Maximum colleges are available in the city for different streams of education. Some of the important colleges in Gandhinagar are Kadi Sarva Vishwavidyalaya, Gujarat National Law University, IIT Gandhinagar, Government Engineering College, School of Petroleum Engineering, Industrial training institutes.
Transport Facilities in Gandhinagar
Nearest airport to Gandhinagar is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International airport. It is in Ahmadabad which is 18 kms away which is connected to all major cities globally. Trains running on westren zone passes through Gandhinagar Railway Station. Five trains originate from this station. Ahmadabad Railway Junction is the nearest junction which is connected well to major cities. National Highways 8 and 8C passes through the city.
Tourism in Gandhinagar
Akshardham temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, and showcases hundreds of sculptures, dioramas and audio visual shows. It provides knowledge about ancient Indian Culture. Adalaj Ni Vav built by Queen Rudabai in 1499, is a five storey step well with intricate cravings. Gujarat Science Centre is built for the promotion of science among students. Sabarmati Ashram was once residence of Mahatma Gandhi, now museum exhibits Mahatma Gandhi’s personal memorabilia and events of his life. Saritha Udhyan offers many recreational festivals and features botanical garden. GIFT (Gujarat International Finance Tec) City tower is the tallest building in Gujarat with is 28 storied, was planned for global hub for financial services.
Festivals Celebrated in Gandhinagar
Uttaryan is International Kite Festival celebrated on 14th and 15th January to mark the end of winter. Navratri is celebrated in nine days; during whihch nine different forms of Goddess are worshipped. Atmosphere is really charged when Holi, festivals of colors, is celebrated. Diwali, festival of lights, is celebrated in the month of October or November. Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped on this day.
0 Comments