Diary Entry: Indore-Ujjain Chronicles
Date: September 19, 2024
Our recent trip from September 14 to 18 was an unforgettable journey filled with culture, history, and a sprinkle of adventure. It was Sambhaji Uncle, my paternal guide and companion for the beginning and the end of the trip, who ensured we captured the essence of both Indore and Ujjain.
The trip began in the bustling city of Indore, where we explored the grand Holkar Wadas, a testament to the Maratha legacy. A visit to IIT Indore was inspiring, showcasing a fusion of modernity and education. Our journey took a spiritual turn as we reached Maheshwar temple, where the serene atmosphere seemed to echo the divine.
Next, we ventured to Ujjain, a city steeped in celestial charm and mythological significance. Here, we roamed through the remnants of the Maratha Holkar relics, marveled at the Omkareshwar Mandir, and felt a deep connection with the sacred Kshipra River. The visit to the mystical Bhairavnath Temple was captivating, a unique blend of devotion and folklore.
Returning to Indore, we indulged in modern luxury at the Phoenix Citadel Mall, reportedly the largest mall in Asia—a sprawling marvel of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The return journey, though tiresome, was painted in hues of the Ganesh Visarjan celebrations, with music and devotion filling the air. Despite the exhaustion, this trip will forever hold a cherished place in my memories.
Astronomy Connection
While in Ujjain, I couldn’t help but reflect on its significance as the home of the ancient Jantar Mantar observatory, a marvel of astronomical precision. Ujjain, positioned on the Tropic of Cancer, has been a pivotal location for celestial studies, connecting the spiritual with the scientific. It’s awe-inspiring to think how the ancients mapped the heavens from this very spot.