Calligraphy - The Art of Inscribe Words

Islamic art is generally reckoned to cover all of the visual arts produced in the lands where Muslims were an important, if not the most important, segment of society. Islamic art differs, therefore, from such other terms as Buddhist or Christian art, for it refers not only to the arts produced by or for the religion of Islam but to the arts of all Islamic cultures. Islamic art was not necessarily created by or for Muslims, for some Islamic art was made by Christian, Jewish, or even Hindu artists working for Muslim patrons, and some Islamic art was created for non Muslim patrons.

Calligraphy is more than ‘beautiful handwriting’ or ‘ornate lettering techniques.Calligraphy is the art of forming beautiful symbols by hand and arranging them well.It’s a set of skills and techniques for positioning and inscribing words so they show integrity, harmony, some sort of ancestry, rhythm and creative fire.

Calligraphy, or the art of writing, was the visual art form prized above all others in traditional China. The genres of painting and calligraphy emerged simultaneously, sharing identical tools namely, brush and ink. Yet calligraphy was revered as a fine art long before painting; indeed, it was not until the Song dynasty, when painting became closely allied with calligraphy in aim, form, and technique, that painting shed its status as mere craft and joined the higher ranks of the fine arts The elevated status of calligraphy reflects the importance of the word in China. This was a culture devoted to the power of the word. From the beginning, emperors asserted their authority for posterity as well as for the present by engraving their own pronouncements on mountain sides and on stone steles erected at outdoor sites.

The Classic Mongolian script written from the top downwards and in clockwise turns and has a classic vertical direction which expresses the almost optimal movement of handwriting due to the theory of probability. The Chinggis Khaan’s stele (inscribed Monument) which was writing around 1224 is an ancient memento, a memory at the same time as well as a monument and a very rare subject of research and studies regarding the Mongolian Calligraphy.

The development of sophisticated calligraphy as an importance art form is not unique to Islamic culture. Other examples include Chinese and Japanese calligraphy and illuminated bibles from north-west Europe including the famous Book of Kells. In the Islamic world, however, calligraphy has been used to a much greater extent and in astonishingly varied and imaginative ways, which have taken the written word far beyond pen and paper into all art forms and materials. For these reasons, calligraphy may be counted as a uniquely original feature of Islamic art.

Ottoman Turkish calligraphy is associated with geometric Islamic art on the walls and ceilings of mosques as well as on the page. Contemporary artists in the Islamic world draw on the heritage of calligraphy to use calligraphic inscriptions or abstractions in their work.The first of those to gain popularity was known as the Kufic script, which was angular, made of square and short horizontal strokes, long verticals, and bold, compact circles.

Most Popular Maori Tattoo Designs

Maori tattoos are among the most distinctive tattoos in the world and have their own identity amongst the Polynesian tattoos. Tattooing is a sacred art among the Maori people of New Zealand, and probably came to them from the islands of East Polynesia.

Maori tattoo art is very beautiful, consisting of curved shapes and spirals in intricate patterns. Distinctive for Maori tattoo designs is the fact that they are based on the spiral and that they are curvilinear. The most prevalent place for a Maori tattoo was the face, probably a result of the cool New Zealand climate.    

     
The Maori tattoo designs have become very popular but they have lost the traditional and tribal meaning that they held for the indigenous Maori. This is because the original Maori tattoos were only made on the members of the community for the particular reasons such as special occasions and festivals. This can be attributed to the different Maori tattoo design meanings. To the Maori considered the head as the most sacred part of the body. Additionally, it was a very visible part.

Ta Moko Tattoos

The Maori tattoo consists of bold spiral designs covering the face, the buttocks and the legs of the Maori men. Maori women were usually tattooed on the lips and chin and in some cases on the neck and the back.Tattooing has a sacred significance the Maori tattoo design itself, and the long and painful process of acquiring the tattoo (Maori tribe tattooing was done with bone chisels).

Rihanna Maori tattoo

Rihanna has covered up her tattoo just weeks after getting the ink done in the traditional Maori way in New Zealand.Celebrity tattooists Bang Bang McCurdy and Cally Jo of Bang Bang Tattoos flew to Rihanna in the Dominican Republic to "incorporate" their design with her Maori tattoo.

Spear Head Maori Tattoo

The Spear Head Maori tattoo stands as a symbol of courage, wisdom and strength. It tries to express the image of a warrior and his great skills. The tattoo has very intricate designs and every line could stand as a symbol for something. It is very innovative and unique in appearance.

Ocean Maori Tattoo

Ocean Maori tattoos are very common. Some understand oceans as a symbol of death or the world beyond it. There are various patterns and designs available to choose from and people have really liked the idea as it makes your tattoo look strikingly amazing.

Lizard Maori Tattoo

In Polynesian culture art, lizards or geckos represent a God like figure. It is a very important part of Polynesian beliefs and ideals. They are known to guard all kinds of diseases and misfortunes and delivering people from enemies. The lizard tattoos are indeed very unique and creative in appearance.

Trditional Dance of Zulu Tribe in South Africa

Traditional Zulu dancing is an important part of the Zulu Tribe culture. Dancing is usually performed during a traditional Zulu Tribe ceremony, and is accompanied by vibrant singing and sometimes the beating of drums. Zulu dance is something quite spectacular, especially when the men and women are fully dressed in their traditional attire.It is customary that unmarried and young men dance, alternating in separate groups, occasionally the married women and men break in and join the festivities.

According to Zulu Tribe Culture thousands of Zulu Tribe virgins dance at the Enyokeni Zulu Tribe Royal Palace each September at the Reed Dance Festival, or Umkhosi Womhlanga. The tradition begins with the virgin maids gathering reeds from the river and bringing them to the Zulu king. The girls dance with the reeds in front of the king, and then he chooses his bride. Besides the bride choice, one of the main purposes of this ritual was to encourage girls to remain virgins until marriage.                  

Native to South African Music, the Zulu tribe has many rituals that have been passed from generation to generation over time. Dancing is one of the most common types of community rituals, and it is incorporated into most Zulu ceremonies. Zulu Tribe dances are signs of happiness and they occur when any significant event takes place.

Types of Zulu Dances

There are many types of Zulu Tribe dances besides the reed dance. The Ingoma dance is considered one of the most purist forms of Zulu Tribe dance, according to Zululand Ecoadventures. This dance is performed to a chant and during transition ceremonies, such as coming of age, weddings and pre-hunt or pre-battle time periods. The Ingoma is frantically danced and incorporates high kicking motions.

Bull Dance

Bull Dance a most popular dance that originated in the cramped confines of the mine dormitories imitating a bull with the arms held aloft and the legs brought down with a thump. The rural girls have their own version.

Music

Ingoma dances are done with the sounds of the dancers’ chants. In the Isishameni form of Ingoma, the boys and girls dance separately, and the opposite genders clap along for each other. The Indalamu dance is done with drums and whistles. The Isicathamiya and Umbholoho dances are danced to both drums and songs.

Hunting Dance

The Hunting Dance imitates the actions of hunting and the bravery it requires. This fiery dance is danced using sticks instead of spears to avoid injury and was danced before the hunt began. The girls also dance their own version but to welcome the men back from the hunt.

Clothing

Girls are bare-chested and wear wool skirts and ankle rattles during the Ingoma dances and reed dance. Boys and men typically only wear cowhides that cover their genitals and backsides during the Ingoma dance. Men wear full warrior attire, such as cowhides, head rings, ankle rattles, ceremonial belts and shields during the Indalamu dance.

Popular Museums in Greece

The Museum of Greek Musical Instruments Research Center for Ethnomusicology- comprises the collection of about 1.200 Greek popular musical instruments dating from 1750 to the present day,the fruit of half a century of research and study by the musicologist Fivos Anoyanakis. The Museum is housed in the historical Lassanis Mansion which was built in 1842 close to the Roman Agora.

The museum there are findings from all the places of ancient Greece and the Greek world, the exhibits include, statues, vases, jewellery, sculpture, weapons, religious items from the Neolithic times, early Cycladic civilisation, the Minoan civilisation, the classical and Hellenistic period and the roman period.      

 
Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum is an archaeological site-specific museum, housing more than 3.000 famous artefacts from the Athenian Acropolis, the most significant sanctuary of the ancient city. Located in the historical area of Makriyianni, southeast of the Rock of the Acropolis, the Museum narrates the story of life on the Rock from prehistoric times until the end of Antiquity. From its opening in June 2009 until March 2012 more than 4 million local and foreign visitors have passed through the Museum’s doors.

National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is the largest museum in Greece and tourist destinations one of the world's great museums. Although its original purpose was to secure all the finds from the nineteenth century excavations in and around Athens, it gradually became the central National Archaeological Museum and was enriched with finds from all over Greece. Its abundant collections, with more than 11,000 exhibits, provide a panorama of Greek civilization from the beginnings of Prehistory to Late Antiquity.

Marathon Museum

The Archaeological Museum of Marathon exhibits art and artifacts unearthed in the surrounding area. Marathon was inhabited since the stone age, so items on display date between the Middle Helladic to the Roman eras.

Nafplion Museum

The Nafplion Archaeological Museum is home to objects unearthed in the Argolis area. Highlights include the bronze Dendra Panoply (15c. BCE), artifacts from the Franchthi cave (Mesolithic to Neolithic), items from the excavations at Tiryns (Bronze to Iron Age), and superb examples of ceramics from the stone Age to the 6th c.

Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki exhibits artifacts unearthed in northern Greece. The bulk of the collection is comprised of precious metal objects from the Hellenic Kingdom of Macedonia.

Popular Museums in New York

The best museums in the world can be found in New York City. From the sprawling American Museum of Natural History to the eclectic Frick Collection, there's bound to be something that appeals to you.

The American Museum of Natural History documents human cultures, the natural world and the cosmos. Its Hall of Biodiversity features an evolutionary timeline tracing 1,500 specimens over 3.5 billion years, and the Rose Center for Earth and Space houses a 429-seat planetarium. The dioramas lining the museum’s hall offer visitors a look at human environments and biological ecosystems through time and . The lifelike three-dimensional figures inside, set against a painted backdrop, are the collaborative work of historians and taxidermists.  

                                                                             
Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is one of the most famous tourist attractions in New York City. The architecture alone makes the museum stand out; it's a huge, sprawling stone building that reflects an eclectic mix of design styles. The Central Park West entrance has towering white columns and a bronze statue of President Theodore Roosevelt on horseback, other parts of the building look Medieval, with towers like on a storybook castle, and the Rose Center is as modern as a building can get, a glass box with the new Hayden sphere floating in the center.

Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum, located on a section of Fifth Avenue known as Museum Mile, is housed in one of the most unique buildings in New York City. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the museum is shaped roughly like a teacup or an upside down terraced hill. It is not unusual to see adults with their children here, going up and down the spiraling ramp.

Madame Tussauds Museum

The favorite celebrities at the 85,000 square-foot, five-story Madame Tussaud's New York. Opened in November, the New York version of the famous London museum takes on "the face of the place" presenting New York's most famous museums and infamous personalities, as well as figures of international fame and acclaim.

Tenement Museum

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum is a portrait of immigrant life in 19th- and early 20th-century New York City on 97 Orchard Street. The museum used to house thousands of working class folks, but it is now a portal into the past. After being abandoned for more than 50 years, this tenement time capsule was revived. With its apartments expertly restored and re-created using everything from personal letters and journals to crime-scene photos and death certificates, the museum brings the building's history back to life.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple in India

The Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple in the coastal South Indian state of Kerala will be audited to make a list of its inventory by former Comptroller and Auditor General of India.ut a lawyer named Ananda Padmanabhan had a hunch. According to legend, treasure was sealed in the temple vaults, and Padmanabhan, who was passionate about history, knew that in centuries past maharajas had performed a ceremony in which they weighed local princes approaching adulthood, then donated to the temple an equivalent weight in gold. Padmanabhan believed that these riches were still hidden in the basement, uncounted and unguarded.                      

The history of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple dates back to 8th century. It is one of the 108 sacred Vishnu temples or Divya Desams in India. Divya Desams are the holiest abodes of the Lord Vishnu that are mentioned in the works of the Tamil Azhvars (saints). The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Vishnu, reclining on Anantha, the hooded Serpent.

Marthanda Varma, the noted among Travancore kings did a major renovation to the temple and it resulted in the present day structure of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple. It was Marthanda Varma who introduced the Murajapam and Bhadra Deepam festivals in the temple and sacred places of india. Murajapam, which literally means continuous chanting of prayers, is still conducted in the temple once in six years.

In 1750, Marthanda Varma dedicated the kingdom of Travancore to Lord Padmanabha. Marthanda Varma vowed that the royal family will rule the state on behalf of Lord and he and his descendants would serve the kingdom as Padmanabha Dasa or the Servant of Lord Padmanabha. Since then the name of every Travancore King was preceded by the title Padmanabha Dasa. The donation of the kingdom of Travancore to Padmanabhaswamy was known as Thripadidanam. The current head of the Travancore Royal Family is Uthradom Thirunal Marthanda Varma.

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala takes its name from the presiding deity of the Sree Padmanabha Swamy temple, who is also known as Anantha (one who reclines on the Serpent Ananatha). The word 'Thiruvananthapuram' literally means - the land of Sree Anantha Padmanabhaswamy. 

Ancient Temples in Greece

Ancient Greece, temples were not places of worship but monuments dedicated to the beloved gods and goddesses. Many important ancient temples are located in Greece and other countries, such as Italy, which were then part of the ancient Greek empire.

Ancient Greece the temple was the most important building. The first temples to be constructed from stone began to appear in the 6th century. The Greek temples were not used as places of worship, but rather as famous monuments to their beloved gods and goddesses. Some of the best examples of Greek temples standing today are located not only in Greece.                                          

Temple of Zeus at Cyrene

Cyrene was the most important of the five Greek colonies in present-day Libya. High up from the rest of the city, lies the Temple of Zeus, dating back to the 5th century BC. It was destroyed during a Jewish rebellion in 115 AD, and was restored 5 years later by the Romans on order of Emperor Hadrian.In 365 AD an earthquake reduced the temple to rubble once more and it was not rebuilt until modern times by British and Italian archaeologists.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is the biggest ancient Greek temple remaining. This colossal temple, built approximately 540 yards southeast of the Acropolis, was dedicated to the king of the Olympian gods, Zeus. The intention when construction began in the sixth century B.C. was to surpass the size of the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Temple of Zeus accomplished that feat when it finally was completed in 131 A.D.

Temple of Hephaestus

The Temple of Hephaestus, dedicated to the god of metal-working and craftsmanship, is located in Athens, Greece. The temple was designed by Ictinus, one of the Parthenon’s architects. The Temple of Hephaestus is the best-preserved ancient Greek temple in the world.

Temple of Apollo Epicurius

The Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae is a well-preserved and unusual Greek temple. It was built somewhere between 450 and 400 BC. The temple is aligned north-south, in contrast to the majority of Greek temples which are aligned east-west. The temple is unusual in that it has examples of all three of the classical orders used in ancient Greek architecture.

Valley of the Temples

The city of Agrigento, Sicily lie the remains of seven Greek temples called the Valley of the Temples. The Temple of Concordia, built in the 5th century BC, is the best preserved in the Valley and is one of the largest and best preserved Doric style temples still standing.

Facts About Maori Tattoo Art

Tribal tattoos have always been a pretty popular design choice but has gained more exposure in the last few years since the various forms of tribal have been more widely showcased. The Maori tribal tattoos, though largely preferred by men, are slowly gaining popularity among women as well. These can be designed and rendered in many ways as traditionally, Maori are made in black ink. The size could vary depending on the design and the location of the Maori tribal design.

Maori tattoo art is very beautiful, consisting of curved shapes and spirals in intricate patterns. Distinctive for Maori tattoo designs is the fact that they are based on the spiral and that they are curvilinear. The most prevalent place for a Maori tattoo art was the face, probably a result of the cool New Zealand climate.
  

Ta Moko Tattoo

Ta moko, often referred to as Maori tattoo art, is the traditional permanent marking of the body and face by Maori. But ta moko is distinct from tattoo in that the skin is carved by uhi (chisels) instead of being punctured with needles. This leaves the skin with textured grooves, rather than the smooth surface of a normal tattoo.

Marquesas Cross Maori Tattoo

The Marquesas Cross is a popular Maori popular symbol. It carries great significance and tries to identify the balance between elements and harmony. Some archaeological studies also say that the cross is connected to the turtle shell. However, we must not overlook the beauty of this tattoo. It really looks stunning on the skin and gives you an ethnic and traditional look.

Spear Head Maori Tattoo

The Spear Head Maori tattoo art stands as a symbol of courage, wisdom and strength. It tries to express the image of a warrior and his great skills. The tattoo has very intricate designs and every line could stand as a symbol for something. It is very innovative and unique in appearance.

Ocean Maori Tattoo

Ocean Maori tattoos are very common. Some understand oceans as a symbol of death or the world beyond it. There are various patterns and designs available to choose from and people have really liked the idea as it makes your tattoo look strikingly amazing.

Flower Maori Tattoo

The flower Maori tattoo art  is very pretty to look at. It contains the image of a beautiful flower surrounded by tribal patterns. It is gorgeous in appearance and is best suited for women. It is worn mostly on the hip.

Riviera Beach Resorts to Stay in Winter

While staying at the Riviera Beach Resort, guests can enjoy lounging by the spacious outdoor or indoor swimming pools or relaxing on the beach with free use beach chair and parasol. The resort also offers on-site dining for breakfast and lunch as well as an on-site lounge.

If you're looking for an exciting getaway, the Riviera Beach Resort features guest rooms for all styles and budgets. Each climate controlled suite at our family-friendly Cape Cod resort offers a private balcony or porch.Whether you plan on spending your days at our private beach or relaxing luxury hotels in the full-service spa at our nearby sister property, you can retreat to a spacious, comfortable room.        

 
Cape Cod resort

Relax in home-like comfort at our Cape Cod resort, a natural oasis for unforgettable vacations. Savor a snack while relaxing on our private beach or enjoy a cocktail before you turn in for the evening. With comfortable features and services, you'll see why we are a longtime favorite among Cape Cod  hotels. The Riviera's features include.

Island Beach Resort

Discover the touches of luxury that set the Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa apart from other hotels. Our resort offers elegant amenities and an oceanfront location in the heart of legendary Palm Beach, FL - steps from the area's best shopping, dining, and entertainment. Luxury condominium-style suites allow for work and play in equal measure, with fully-equipped kitchens and deluxe bedding.

Capistrano Beach Resort

The Riviera Beach & Spa Resort in Capistrano Beach offers a fabulous Southern California vacation experience. The resort is located in Capistrano Beach which overlooks the coast on the southern end of Dana Point. You’ll soon discover that there is a lot to do and see around Capistrano Beach and beyond. Take advantage of the temperate weather to explore many kinds of outdoor activities, visit several of the popular nearby tourist attractions or check out some of the local dining and entertainment.

Golden Riviera Beach Resort

Golden Riviera Beach Resort on the Gold Coast situated on the tranquil beaches of Tugun, walking distance to all the side cafes, restaurants, parks, supermarkets, hotel and surf life saving club in the little village of Tugun.The Gold Coast Resort boasts 74 luxury fully self contained apartments, with large outdoor heated pool and spa. BBQ areas for entertaining in the landscaped gardens and by the poolside, Sauna & gym, Patrolled beaches and an underground security parking is what makes our resort the best choice when looking for Gold Coast Beachfront Accommodation.

Palm Beach Resort

O n an island known for its swaying palm trees and fresh coastal breezes lies a heavenly resort retreat on Palm Beach’s most beautiful, expansive beach. At luxurious five-star Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach, Florida, immerse yourself in a chic and classic Florida resort where your every desire for a tropical escape will be met.Read more about top hotels.
                    

French Wedding Traditions

The French wedding traditions have persisted today, transplanted to other parts of the world and influenced modern wedding ceremony  as it is known today.

If your other half is French and you aren’t, this post should give you a crash course in French wedding traditions so that you are fully up to speed before you begin talking details with your respective families. If neither you or your partner is French, you might like to think about incorporating some French traditions into your wedding on the French Riviera. Here is a brief explanation of the main French wedding traditions.

Most often, a civil wedding takes place the same day as the religious wedding, one after the other. Sometimes the civil wedding takes days, weeks or months before the religious one. It really depends on the couple and there are no official rules for these types of French weddings.          

Wedding Procession

This is a tradition that is still practiced in small villages in France today where the groom calls to the home of his bride-to-be on the morning of their wedding traditions and indian culture. The procession is headed by musicians and followed by the bride with her father. The guests and family follow behind them again with the groom and his mother at the very back of the line. As the wedding couple make their way to the chapel, village children stretch white ribbon across the road that the bride must cut as she passes.

Wedding Ceremony

The wedding ceremony held in the church is decorated in white. It is custom in France for the groom to walk his mother down the aisle when the guests are seated. The groom and bride are seated in two red velvet chairs and exchange their vows. They receive their final blessing beneath a silk canopy known as a “carre”. On leaving the church, they are showered with grains of wheat and rice symbols of prosperity and fertility.

Wedding Reception

Another old tradition that I came across was one where the guests would bring small cakes to the wedding and pile them as high as they could in the centre of the table. If the happy couple managed to share a kiss over the pile without knocking the cakes then they would live a lifetime of prosperity. The French cake is known as Croquembouche and is made up of small creme filed pastry puffs stacked high into the shape of a pyramid. I remember the Croquembouche being wheeled out at my brothers wedding covered in sparklers and loud fan fair music.

wedding Dress

In Medieval France, the bride’s best dress was converted into her wedding dress with embellishments of beads, ribbons and embroidery. The color of the dress was not significant. However, over a period of time brides began to prefer white, russet, wine and blue as their wedding dress. Black was worn if the groom was a widower. White as a color of innocence and purity emerged in the 18th and 19th century in the true biblical tradition. 

Saudi Arabian Calligraphy Art Font Styles

Arabic calligraphy art has flourished throughout history as an art form that adds value and beauty to literature. The development of sophisticated calligraphy art as an art form is not unique to Islamic culture. In the Islamic world, however, calligraphy has traditionally been held in high regard. The energy and value given to the copying and writings of the Qur’an elevated Arabic calligraphy art to the status of an art.

The Artists in Saudi Arabia are known for their intricate and detailed form of writing known as Arabic calligraphy. In the old town of Jeddah, also known as Al Balad, the traditional culture art form is getting a new twist by being blended with graffiti.                        

This expression can be orally, through written word, art, or music, or even in actions or gestures. It can be a combination of these artifacts, such as the case of Arabic or (used interchangeably) Islamic calligraphy art. Many definitions of Arabic calligraphy exist; in my opinion, it is best stated as "the art of beautiful or elegant handwriting as exhibited by the correct formation of characters, the ordering of the various parts, and harmony of proportions.

Diwani is a calligraphic variety of Arabic script, a cursive style developed during the reign of the early Ottoman Turks (16th century - early 17th century). It was invented by Housam Roumi and reached its height of popularity under Süleyman I the Magnificent (1520–1566). It was labeled the Diwani script because it was used in the Ottoman diwan and was one of the secrets of the sultan's palace. The rules of this script were not known to everyone, but confined to its masters and a few bright students. It was used in the writing of all royal decrees, endowments, and resolutions.

Nastalīq is one of the main script styles used in writing the Perso-Arabic script, and traditionally the predominant style in Persian calligraphy art.[1] It was developed in Iran in the 8th and 9th centuries. Although it is sometimes used to write Arabic language text[citation needed] (where it is known as Taliq[citation needed] and is mainly used for titles and headings), its use has always been more popular in the Persian, Turkic, and South Asian spheres of influence.

Thuluth (Persian: ثلث‎ solos, Turkish: Sülüs, from Arabic: ثلث‎ ṯuluṯ “one-third”) is a script variety of Islamic calligraphy art invented by the Persian Ibn Muqlah Shirazi[citation needed], which made its first appearance in the 11th century CE (fourth Hijri). The straight angular forms of Kufic were replaced in the new script by curved and oblique lines. In Thuluth, one-third of each letter slopes, from which the name (meaning “a third” in Arabic) comes.

Jellyka Saint-Andrew’s Queen is a free calligraphy art font that is, in my opinion, the most authentic looking free font I was able to find. It really appears to have been written by hand as you can see the lines becoming thicker and thinner throughout the penstrokes. 

Facts About Calligraphy Art

Calligraphy Art is the art of penmanship. Traditionally, calligraphy art is often used in conjunction with illumination / decoration of the manuscript or book. There are many types of traditional calligraphy Art and illumination: early Egyptian papyrus manuscripts of Renaissance pattern, oriental works created by brush, Islamic ornamentation and so on. To become a good calligrapher, you need many years of hard practice. To become a great calligrapher, you need many years of hard practice and a lot of natural talent. Unfortunately, with the development of computer assisted art of traditional calligraphers need / those who do not use a computer / dropped significantly.          

Chinese Calligraphy

With a history of four to five thousand years, the art of Chinese calligraphy art is rich and profound in content and has attracted the attention of artists the world over.

The Chinese Brush Calligraphy Art is one of the traditional four arts which was once an important critical standard for the Chinese literati in the imperial era and now prevails not only in China but also worldwide as a unique branch of art.

Chinese Calligraphy Art is so abstract and sublime that in Chinese culture it is universally regarded to be the most revealing power of a person. While one has conformed to the defined structure skill of inscribe characters or words, the expression can be displayed with great creativity by individuals.

To become an artist or expert in Chinese calligraphy, one has to practice word by word and stroke by stroke until the spirit of the practice gets into one's mind. Just as Chinese Qi Gong, the Chinese brush calligraphy can temper a person into a state in which one can apply subconsciousness got from the daily practice to control the concentration of ink and the compatibility of font and size of each piece or word.

In contrast to the Western calligraphy art, diffusing ink blots and dry brush strokes are viewed as a natural and free impromptu expression. All the varieties of the operation depend on the mental exercise that coordinates the mind and the body to perform the proper sense to choose the proper way in expressing the content of the passage.

Arbic Calligraphy

Arabic calligraphy Art differs from Western calligraphy in two separate and fundamental ways. It originated not as a utilitarian means of communication between man and man, but as a sacred means of communication from God to man. The Arabic script was scarcely evolved, and little used before the time of Muhammad; it was developed within a century into majestic form as a vehicle for the transmission of the Koran and thus became the heritage of all Islamic peoples.

The calligrapher and the beholder this factor gives this art its character and importance, and explains its function not only in the book, but as a dominant element in architectural decoration, and in almost all the other art forms metal, ceramic, glass, textile of the Islamic world.

Arabic script is differentiated from Latin by its composition. Both are alphabetic; but whereas Latin letters are always separate entities, in Arabic writing they are part of a unit. All letters, except those beginning a word, join on to the preceding letter, and also, with four exceptions, to the succeeding one.

The script therefore moves horizontally from right to left with breaks only at the ends of words or where these final letters occur. The number of letter-forms is also fewer certain forms are only differentiated by dots.

What To Learn From KhajurahoTemple Sculptures

The ancient Indian sculptures from KhajurahoTemple are renowned for rare beauty and awe-inspiring artistry. In fact, the serene town of Khajuraho has the best sculpture and medieval temples in India. Located in the state of Maharashtra, Khajuraho is known all over the world for its erotic sculptures. These sculptures are also one of the greatest tourist attractions of the state.

The temples were built out of sandstone and adorned with the graceful curved of the stone sculptures of unparallel beauty. The temples were created by the Chandela rulers in the Indo Aryan style. Originally there had been 85 temples, out of which only 22 survive today. The site was forgotten for centuries before it was rediscovered in 1838.                                              

The Khajuraho temples mark the highest development of Indian architecture design. The sculptures represented at Khajuraho Temple include the cult images, Parivara devatas (Family deities), Apsaras or Sura-Sundaris, secular & animal sculptures can be seen at Kandariya Madadeva Temple which displays tall & slender figures with distinctive physiognomy.

Khajuraho Temples are the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples. The temples are known for the erotic sculptures within.The Khajuraho Temples were built during the Chandela Dynasty of Central India. After the fall of the dynasty, the temples were abandoned and forgotten and only 22 of the original 85 temples survived when they were rediscovered by a British army engineer, Captain T.S. Burt.The temples are grouped into western, eastern, and southern sections. Inside the temples are detailed carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from life, such as war, marriage, symbols of spirituality, every day life, and all kinds of life forms. Various temples are dedicated to gods like Shiva, Surya, and Lord Vishnu.

The remnants of the temples and their unique sculptures were restored and today they attract a large number of visitors and art aficionados from all over the globe. The sculptures of Khajuraho famous temple include statues of gods and goddesses, warriors, celestial dancers and animals, besides those of couples in erotic poses. The Hindu philosophy of Yoga (meditation) and Bhoga (physical pleasure), the two paths leading to final liberation, seem to be the underlying theme of these sculptures. All life was seen as an expression of divinity, including human love. The union between man and woman was viewed as the culmination of devotion, symbolic of the union of the devotee with god and divinity.

The Falling in line with all the other ancient religions of the world, these sculptures too celebrate the sacred union of the male and the female the Yin and the Yang. The erotic sculptures depict human beings in the act of making love and thereby reaching the final union of two opposite yet complementary forces of nature that is creative origin of all.

Most Visited Temples in North India

North Indian temples have been constructed in the typical Nagara style of architecture .The basic structure of temples in India is more or less the same throughout, and the same features are seen in the temples of the north as well.Architecture of North Indian Temples.

India is very well known as the country of religions and has many temples, Dhams, Gurudwaras, Mosques, Churches and holy rivers. The temples in North India would be the most mainstream of the Hindu faith in India. Most of the North Indian temples have been designed in Nagara style temple architecture. The temples and literature, laying down rules and method of construction have been well preserved in Orissa. In the Nagara style architecture the temple structure consists of two buildings, one is the main shrine and the other mandapa.          

                                             
Badrinath Temple

Badrinath temple, sometimes called Badrinarayan temple, is situated along the Alaknanda river, in the hill town of Badrinath in Uttarakhand state in North India. It is widely considered to be one of the holiest Hindu temples, and is dedicated to god Vishnu. The temple and town are one of the four Char Dham, Do Dham and Chota Char Dham pilgrimage sites. It is also one of the 108 Divya Desams, holy shrines for Vaishnavites. The temple is Agra tour open only six months every year (between the end of April and the beginning of November), due to extreme weather conditions in the Himalayan region.

Akshardham, New Delhi

Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi epitomizes 10,000 years of North Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom an d bliss. It brilliantly showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages. The Akshardham experience is an enlightening journey through India’s glorious art, values and contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind.

Kashi Viswanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred and famous temple in Varanasi. The Temple is extremely popular in all other parts of North India too. Every year a considerable chunk of foreign visitors come to Varanasi to get a glimpse of the Vishwanath Temple even though the followers of Semitic religions are not allowed to enter the sanctum of the temple. Kashi Vishwanath Temple is standing on the west bank of India's holiest river Ganga and situated in Varanasi which is the oldest surviving city of the world, and which is the cultural capital of North India. In the heart of this city is standing with the fullest majesty the Kashi Vishwanath Temple enshrined with the Jyotirlinga of Shiva, Vishweshwara or Vishwanatha.

Bhimakali Temple

The Bhimakali Temple is situated in Sarahan district of Himachal Pradesh, this Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. The architecture of the temple is the prime highlight. The temple is all built with wood and presents a wonderful combination of the Hindu and Buddhist Temple style. Bhimakali Temple has a unique and unusual architecture and wealth of wood carvings, Shri Bhima Kali Temple at Sarahan is the major monument that is duplicated no where else in the erstwhile hill states. Sarahan is a unique hill station of Himachal Pradesh known for the natural beauty it is surrounded with.

French Cultural Music And Dance

Take this opportunity to become a bit more immersed in the French culture. Learn about the French culture with information about the French alphabet, holidays, music, dance, art, sports, food, and more.Music and dance of France has further been enriched through the influences of Africa, Latin America and Asia. The folk tunes of these continents have added the requisite fizz to create the music dance of France as dynamic because the country itself. Because of so many different inputs, culture of France leaves its mark about the overall cultural scenario of Europe.      
                                        
Dance and Music of France there are 4,300 institutions that specialize in music dance. France Cultural  is known for developing ballet. The first ballet in France was performed in 1518 and was called the Ballet Comique de la Reine. This famous ballet was performed in the court of Catherine de Medicis. This ballet fused various elements like music dance, dance, plot and design. Another major development in the history of dance took place in 1661, when Louis XVI established the Academie Royale de Danse. The company is now known as the Paris Opera Ballet. This company dominated European theatrical dance during the 18th and early 19th centuries.                                                            

French Cultural Music

The lengthy history of French music begans back in the 10th century with court songs and chivalrous music. Much of France's early folk music was instrumental, with very few and very simple instruments; but there was a group of poet-composers who began their work around the 10th century as well. From this point forward, France has an illustrious musical history, ranging from opera to classical, to pop and rock in the 20th century.In order to do justice to French musicdance, one would have to write an entire series of books on each type of music in the history of music in France. Here, a short summary can pique your appetite.The first operas appeared culture tourism in France during the mid-17th century. While the first operas were experimental, opera was soon met with considerable enthusiasm in Paris, especially the operas based on the Italian opera of the time. During the reign of Louis XIV, Italian-style opera began to flourish in France.

French Cultural Dance

French are by nature very fond of music and dance, and are credited to invent several of world-famous dances. France is known to invent Ballet dances way back in 1581. The French king Louis XIV passion for dances led to the establishment of the Académie Royale de Danse, which contributed significantly to development of new dance style and technique in the late 17th and early 18th century Europe. Ballroom and square dances also grew in popularity in France during this period.France has a very rich and varied dance tradition and almost every region of France has its own distinct forms of music and dances. Traditional folk dances and music are well preserved in several relatively isolated regions in the south France.If you've some basic knowledge of French art and musicdance, you must be familiar with some of the basic dance forms, such as Waltz, Polka, Mazurka, Marche, Scottish, Rondeau and the Bourree. Carols and Baroque dances are other popular traditional dances in France.

Shani Dev Temples - Hindu Temple in India

Shri Shaneshwar Devasthan Shanishingnapur's legend in Taluk Naivasa of District Ahmednagar is famous, far and wide, as the shrine of countless devotees. The number of its unbelievable miracles finds its place of pride in The Guinness book of World Records. Ahmednagar's population is known popularly as the place of saints. God Shani occupies a place of fear in the minds of most people in India.

 The Most Famous Temple in India.Shani Shignapur is a village located in Ahmednagar District of Maharashtra. It is about 35 km from Ahmednagar.The presiding deity of Shinganapur, Sri Shaneshwara or Lord Shanidev- the personification of the planet Saturn is worshipped with utmost reverence and devotion by multitudes of people from all over the world. The spectacle of the deity in black stone is overwhelming. A unique aspect of this place is, that no Shani dev temple structure houses the Shanidev. There is only a simple platform on which stands the swayambhu idol, in black stone.                                      

                             
A little village settled in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, 65 km away from Shirdi, Shani Shinganapur is believed to be the home of Lord Shaneshwara (the personification of the planet Saturn). The place is visited by devotees coming in to pay respect to the Mighty Lord Shanidev.The belief of the local people in the deity is so strong that they don't build doors for their houses. The indian temple In the entire village, you can’t spot one house with doors locking them.

The village have no doors as people believe that Shani dev temple will save them from thefts and miscreants will be punished immediately by Shani dev temple.There is no statue and Black stone pillar is worshiped with deep respect and traditions.Transport vehicles has fixed shops of the village. The puja offerings can be priced any thing based on the capabilities of the devotee .There is no fixed rate so you can bargain. As a offering Oil is offered to Shani dev temple and devotees themselves can do the avisekham by pouring the oil over the statue. You can buy oil packets from these shops.

Shani Dev Temple is a considered to be a "Deva" (God). He is the son of Lord Surya Chhaya and hence is also known as "Chayyaputra". He is the elder brother of Yama or Yamraj, the Hindu god of death. Shani Dev gives us the results of one's deeds through one's life through appropriate punishments and rewards.

Shani Shignapur is a famous pilgrimage of Lord Shani Dev Temple. It is a village, situated near the Ahemdanagar district of Maharashtra.The shrine, standing on a simple platform at Shignapur village, is a self emerged black stone. It is known as "Swayambhu" No Shani Dev temple structure houses this idol. It is believed to be exist since Kaliyuga started. Unlike other temples, you have to perform pooja and abhishekam rituals by yourself at Shignapur Dham. 

Introduction To Maori People of New Zealand

The Maori are the native or indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand (Aotearoa The Long White Cloud). They arrived in New Zealand from eastern Polynesia in several waves at some time before 1300 CE. Over several centuries in isolation, the Maori developed a unique culture with their own language, a rich mythology, distinctive crafts and performing arts. They formed a tribal society based on East Polynesian social customs and organisation. Horticulture flourished using plants they introduced, and after about 1450 a prominent warrior culture emerged.

Maori people define themselves by their iwi (tribe), hapu (sub-tribe), maunga (mountain) and awa (river). Whanau is the name given to family the term embraces immediate family, in-laws and all those connected by blood ties.In recent years, the introduction of Maori language nests (kohanga reo) has revived the Maori language. At kohanga reo, preschool children are encouraged to speak in Maori. Primary and secondary schools build on this early immersion by including Maori in the curriculum.              

The Maori language lost its role as a living community language (used by significant numbers of people) in the post war years. In tandem with calls for sovereignty and the righting of social injustices from the 1970s onwards, many New Zealand schools now teach Maori culture tourism and language, and pre-school kohanga reo (literally: "language nests") have started which teach tamariki (young children) exclusively in maori. These now extend right through secondary schools (kura tuarua).

The POI was used, many years ago, by the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand to increase their flexibility and strength in their hands and arms as well as improving coordination.Wahine (female) dancers perform the Maori POI, a dance performed with balls attached to flax strings, swung rhythmically. Those pictured to the right are using short POI.The POI dance was originally used by the Maori women for keeping their hands flexible for weaving and by the men for strength and coordination required during battle. POI are also used as a training aid for other ancient weapons like the Mere or Patu (Short club).

The New Zealand Wars pitched the might of the British Empire and a number of Maori tribes that remained loyal to the crown against the majority of the Maori people. Through the use of ingenious tactics and innovative fortifications the Maori side was able to withstand the attacks for many years before eventually succumbing to the British side's main unmatchable advantage, its vast numerical advantage.

Maori people often use the term Tangata whenua (literally, "people of the land") to describe themselves in a way that emphasises their relationship with a particular area of land a tribe may be tangata whenua in one area, but not another. The term can also refer to Maori as a whole in relation to New Zealand (Aotearoa) as a whole.

Popular Styles o French Dance

French Dance traditional dancing encompases a huge range of geographically and culturally separate groups. At first glance there is little common ground between the hypnotic circle dances of Brittany, the graceful couple dances of central France and the wild Fandangos of the Basque Country. However, they all form part of the larger group of European dances, all of which have developed from simple circle dances with frequent contacts between the different regions. For a review of the recent history of French Dance traditional music and dance.

France has been the cultural centre of Europe since Medieval times. Under the reign of Louis XIV, ballet flourished, and the "French" style of ballet was born. Dancing was a popular pastime for the court, therefore ballroom and square dances also became popular dance during this period. As time went on, dance moved out of the court and into music halls and venues where the audience would often participate.  

   
Mazurka Dance

The mazurka is a seductive dance for couples popular throughout Europe, but the French Dance have put their own stamp on it. It is typically done in 3/3 time to the rhythm of the three-syllable word "mazurka," with an accent on the second beat. A French Dance mazurka starts with the man taking three steps, starting with his left foot, and the woman mirroring him with her right. They then make a quarter turn to the leader's left and take three steps on their opposite feet from the first time.

Ballet Dance

Despite its long association with French culture, ballet actually originated in 15th century Italy. Ballet greatly developed in France during the time of Louis XIV and beyond, as it was a favourite pastime of the King. Ballet and elements of comedy would combine to form dramatic ballets for entertainment at weddings or other celebrations. Dancers tended to be courtiers, until Louis XIV opened the first ever ballet school in 1661, and it became possible to train professionally. The French Dance style of ballet today is synonymous with elegance and precise movements.

Basse Dance

The Dance French basse danse comes in two catagories: regular and irregular. The difference is that a regular basse dance contains 80 bars in its main part. In every four bars, or one quaternion, dancers perform either a double step, two single steps, a step called a reprise, or a branle, a kind of chain dance in which dancers join together and move side to side, either in a circle on in a serpentine pattern. Irregular basse dances deviate from this structure.

Zouk Dance

Zouk is a fun, modern dance suitable for all ages. For many in the younger dance crowd, Zouk has rekindled an interest in partner dancing. For those who have experience dancing other traditional Latin dances (and even West Coast Swing), many of the moves, techniques or concepts from those dances can be imported to Zouk, making it relatively easy to adapt to this dance. In addition, Zouk can be danced to a variety of music and a variety of moods, making it a versatile dance to know.

Baroque Period Dance

The gavotte was a popular dance in the Baroque era, so named as it originated in the Pays de Gap region amongst the Gavot people. It consisted of a step pattern where feet were crossed twice after each step, and then a hop would follow. It was of moderate tempo, and there would often be someone leading the dance. 

Khajuraho Temples - Symobol of Love in India

The Khajuraho Temples in Madhya Pradesh are amongst the most beautiful medieval monuments in India. Originally a group of 85, they are the largest group of Hindu and Jain temples in the world, although only about 25 of them remain today. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, they have awed generations of people with their architectural brilliance, intricate carvings and, most famously, their erotic sculptures.

Khajuraho has the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, famous for their erotic sculpture. The Khajuraho group of monuments has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is considered to be one of the "seven wonders" of India.            

   
The Southern group of temples in Khajuraho is located slightly away from the other groups of temples. Duladeo and Chaturbhuj temples are the main temples in the southern group of temples in Khajuraho. The Duladeo or “the newly married woman” is a Shiva temple. Tall Chaturbhuj temple, about 1 ½ km away from Duladeo temple is dedicated to Vishnu.

The temples of Khajuraho are divided into three geographical groups: Western, Eastern and Southern.The Western group is certainly the best known, because it is to this group that the largest and most typical Khajuraho temple tourist places belongs: The Kandariya Mahadev. Perfectly symmetrical, it soars 31 km high. Though the four temples that stand at the corners of the main shrine are now in ruins, the main shrine has an exquisitely carved entrance arch with a multitude of themes. Celestial beings, lovers serenading musicians movements captured in stone, frozen in time, yet retaining a quality of warm, pulsating life. The very stone seems to have taken on the living, breathing quality of the carved figures.

The Khajuraho temples, scattered over an area of about 9 square miles, depict the traditional lifestyle of women in the medieval age. Rediscovered almost nine centuries later, they give a poignant representation of life in the 11th century. A few of the temples are dedicated to the Jain pantheon and the rest to Hindu deities to God's Trio, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva and various Devi forms, such as the Devi Jagadambi. The divine sculptures are a tribute to life itself.

Khajuraho is believed to be the religious capital of Chandellas. Chandella rulers had tried to discriminate politics from religious & cultural activities, so they established their political capital in Mahoba which is about 60km. away from Khajuraho and religious/cultural capital in Khajuraho. Whole Khajuraho was enclosed by a wall with about 8 gates used for entry/exit. It is believed that each gate is flanked by two date/palm trees.

After fall of Chandella dynasty (after AD 1150), Khajuraho Temples suffered destruction & disfigurement by muslim invaders in this area which forced local people to leave Khajuraho. As muslim invaders had a ruling policy of intolerance for worship places of other religions so all the citizens of Khajuraho left the town with a hope that its solitude will not attract attention of muslim invaders into the temple area and in this way both temple and they themselves will remain unhurt. 

Folk Dances in French

French traditional dancing encompases a huge range of geographically and culturally separate groups. At first glance there is little common ground between the hypnotic circle dances of Brittany, the graceful couple dances of central France and the wild Fandangos of the Basque Country. However, they all form part of the larger group of European Folk dances, all of which have developed from simple circle dances with frequent contacts between the different regions. For a review of the recent history of French traditional music and dance see the excellent.                                            

Music and dance of France has further been enriched through the influences of Africa, Latin America and Asia. The folk tunes of these continents have added the requisite fizz to create the music of France as dynamic because the country itself. Because of so many different inputs, culture of France leaves its mark about the overall cultural scenario of Europe.              

Branle Dance

Branle Dances"16th-century French dance style which moves mainly from side to side, and is performed by couples in either a line or a circle." "According to Arbeau, every ball began with the same four branles: the double branle, the single branle, the gay branle, and the Burgundian branle.

Cotillion Dance

The cotillion is a type of patterned social dance and music culture that originated in France in the 18th century. It was originally made up of four couples in a square formation, the forerunner of the quadrille; in the United States the square dance, where the "figures" are called aloud by the caller, is a form of rural contredanse that also descended from the urban cotillion. Its name, from French cotillon, "petticoat", reflected the flash of petticoats as the changing partners turned.

Polonaise Dance

A dance of Polish origin. The polonaise had a rhythm quite close to that of the Swedish semiquaver or sixteenth-note polska, and the two dances have a common origin.Polonaise is a widespread dance in carnival parties. Polonaise is always a first dance at a studniówka ("hundred-days"), the Polish equivalent of the senior prom that occurs approximately 100 days before exams.

Sarabande Dance

Originally, a dance considered disreputable in 16th-century Spain, and, later, a slow, stately dance that was popular in France. Possibly of Mexican origin or perhaps evolved from a Spanish dance with Arab influence that was modified in the New World, it was apparently danced by a double line of couples to castanets and lively music." --Encyclopedia Britannica.

Integral Part of Singapore Culture

Singapore culture has a strong influence of Chinese, Malay and Indian cultures. The diversity of Singapore culture is due to her history. Singapore was once a popular free trading port in the 18th century which attracted many Chinese immigrant from China, Indian from India sub-continent, Malay from the Malay peninsular and Eurasian from the various part of Europe who came to trade in Singapore or work in Singapore and later settle down at this cosmopolitan island. These ethnic races still evident in modern Singapore today, though most of the Singaporeans do think of themselves as Singaporeans, regardless of race or culture, each still bears its own unique character and this mixture of cultures formed the Singapore culture.          

                                                                   
Singapore Culture is an island, located at the southern tip of Malaysia. From 1819, it served as a trading port for British ships on their way to India. As a major trading hub and because of its close proximity to its neighbor Malaysia, Singapore Culture was prone to many foreign influences, both from Britain and from other Asian countries. Chinese and Indian workers moved to Singapore to work at the harbor.            

Singapore Culture Language English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil are the four official languages spoken in Singapore and the national language is Malay. The national anthem is written in Malay language, however not many of the young generation know how to speak Malay. The young generation used English to communicate with different races.

The visual arts scene has been active in Singapore Culture since the colonial days when well known European artists visited the area to record and paint the development of the country. In 1976, the establishment of the Art Gallery in the National Museum gave a major boost to the Singaporean visual arts by giving local artists the opportunity to exhibit their work.

Singapore food Culture Known as one of the global food capitals, Singapore is legendary for the sheer diversity, richness, and creativity of its culinary scene. One of the main drivers behind the spurt in Singapore tourism is its popularity in terms of food.

Singapore Festival celebrates the festivals of every ethnic group with gusto throughout the year. Proud of Singapore multicultural and multiracial society, Singaporeans join in the festivities of one another with respect and enjoyment. The list below are the festivals that belong to the different ethnic group celebrate in Singapore Culture.

Singapore has always had a vibrant and exciting musical past. Singapore's folk music incorporates elements of Tamil, Chinese, and Malay sounds to produce a lovely amalgamation of sounds that is distinctly Singaporean!Special mention must be made of Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, which is Singapore's main arts centre. Esplanade is now home to Singapore classical music, Singapore Symphony Orchestra, and several concerts that take place through the year. 

Facts About Golden Temple Amritsar, India

Golden Temple is one of the most important and key religious places for Sikhs in Amritsar. The Gurudwara blessed with immense spiritual bliss and tranquillity really forms the centre and soul of Amritsar. It also holds the Granth Sahib which is a holy scripture for the Sikhs. The upper floors of the Gurudwara are completely covered with gold and hence it is called the Golden Temple.

The Golden Temple has three holy trees. There is also a small Sikh Museum near the Ghanta Ghar, or clock house, in Amritsar which is very rich in information. The entire top of the temple is made of pure gold and thus adds a lot of pride and beauty to the entire temple.                

The construction of the Golden Temple itself started in 1588 under the leadership of the fifth guru; Guru Arjan Dev Ji. The story says that a close friend of the guru was asked to lay the foundation stone of the building. After the stone had been laid, a mason straightened the stone which, to which the guru said as you have just undone the work of such a holy man, who knows what disaster might come.”

The Golden Temple is located in Punjab, northern India. It lies next to the lake Amritsar, in the southern parts of the city with the same name. The easiest way to reach the Golden Temple from afar is by airplane. The Amritsar Airport lies in close proximity to the famous temple.

• The Central Sikh Museum is a must visit for everyone touring the Darbar Sahib. It reflects the history and significance of the Golden Temple through its murals, paintings and art works. These were made by prominent Sikh personalities, including saints, warriors and leaders.

• The Golden Temple is also referred to as "Darbar Sahib” or “Harmandar Sahib", and is one of the oldest worship places for the Indian Sikh. It is located in Amritsar, Punjab.

• The Guru Granth Sahib is the holy scripture of the Sikhs. This large holy book is a compilation of the renderings of the renowned saints of the time (like Sant Kabir and Surdas) and the Ten Gurus (known as the founders of Sikhism). It was compiled by Guru Arjan Dev and installed for the very first time in this temple. You can spot it on a prominent platform under a jewel-studded canopy on the ground floor in the Main Hall of the Golden Temple.

• The temple was initially built without any gold coating. It is during the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the ruler of Punjab in the early 19th century that the temple went under full renovation and made into what it is today.
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• Before the temple was built, the first Guru of the Sikhs, Guru Nanak, used to meditate at the site. It was not until the fifth Guru, Guru Arjana that the temple was built.

Spectacular Religious Bali Temples

Balinese temples are unique in architecture and structure and are built according to strict rules. Traditional religion is a major part of life in Bali Temples. We have listed for you the most important and most interesting to visit. Do not forget to wear decent clothes (or a Sarong) and behave accordingly, otherwise entry will be denied. Religious Bali is known as an island of thousands temples. In every village in Bali Temples, there are several temples and at least one small temple in each home of Balinese which reach to a total of 10.000.

The temple is the single most important institution on the island. Religious Bali Temples is commonly called the island of a thousand temples, although this is an understatement as every house, village, many crossroads, and irrigation points have a temple. Most pura ("temple" in Sanskrit) share a common architecture, being larger or smaller versions of the previous one you saw. The temples' structure, layout, and days of celebration (and how to celebrate), have been ordained for centuries.            

                 
Taman Ayun Temple

Taman Ayun which means beautiful garden, is located in Mengwi Village, 18 km northwest of Denpasar. It was built in 1634 by I Gusti Agung Anom, a founder of the Mengwi Kingdom, and became the main temple for the ancient Mengwi Kingdom. The temple is surrounded by ponds which give the effect from a distance as if the temple is floating on water.Taman Ayun Temple was renovated in 1937. The grassy area of the outermost courtyard, the fine array of roofs (merus) and pavilions in the inner courtyard, and its well-kept appearance make it one of the most beautiful temples in Bali Temples.

Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple, or Pura Luhur Uluwatu, one of six key temples believed to be Bali's spiritual pillars, is renowned for its magnificent location, perched on top of a steep cliff approximately 70 metres above sea level. This temple also shares the splendid sunset backdrops as that of Tanah Lot Temple, another important temple located in the island's western shores.

Goa Lawah Temple

Goa Lawah is one of Bali’s most important temples. It features a complex built around a cave opening that is inhabited by hordes of bats, and its name translates to 'Bat Cave’. This temple was established in the 11th century by Mpu Kuturan, one of early priests who laid the foundations of Hinduism on the island.Goa Lawah is located in the village of Pesinggahan, Dawan district, bordering the Klungkung and Karangasem regencies. This landmark is one of the first stops on tours to Candidasa and further eastern regions within the Karangasem regency.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Ulun Danu Temple is located at the edge of lake Bratan, Bedugul area, Candikuning village, Baturiti district, Tabanan regency Bali Temples, The distance from Denpasar city about 56 kilometers to the north along the highway Denpasar - Singaraja. Ulun Danu Beratan temple is one of the most famous Balinese Hindu temple, it is also commonly called as Bali temple on the lake or Bali temple on the water because it looks like floating on the water when the water level in the lake is rising.

Lempuyang Temple

Lempuyang temple is situated on the highest of Belibis Hill, northeast of Mount Agung, in Karangasem regency. Lempuyang Temple is one in all the six major Temple in Bali island specifically Andakasa Temple, Uluwatu Temple, Watukaru Temple, Ulun Danu Batur Temple and Besakih Temple. Compare to alternative six major temple of island, Lempuyang Luhur is tiny and contains of a padmasana or the shrine of God, 2 shrines that area unit almost like padmasana and share single foundation, dedicated to Hyang Gnijaya, the founding father of Lempuyang Temple and his sons. 

Maori Cultural Art - Tribal Tattoo

The Maori people of New Zealand have developed a unique culture rich in tradition. The following paragraphs briefly describe Maori culture covering such topics as Maori language and Maori art. For more detailed information click here for books on Maori culture.

Tribal as a tattoo type was originally a assorted collection of different ancient tribes and cultures from around the world. Maori tattoos are a popular tattoo choice for many men. Although Maori Tribal tattoos are mainly worn by men, women do get such tattoos. Maori tattoos cultural can be designed in a variety of different ways. Maori tattoo designs are traditionally done in black ink and vary in size. However, some tattoo artist put their own twist on this type of Tribal tattoo so you may see different designs, symbols, and colors.      

The Maori Cultural are indigenous people that originated in New Zealand. They have a form of body art, known as moko but more commonly referred to as Maori tattooing. The art form was brought to the Maori from Polynesia and is considered highly sacred. Since the Maori people consider the head to be the most sacred part of the body, the most popular kind of Maori tattoo was the facial Tribal tattoo, which was composed of curved shapes and spiral like patterns. Often this tattoo covered the whole face and was a symbol of rank, social status, power and prestige.

Ta Moko tattoo

Ta Moko The origins of tamoko come from Rangi and Papa through one of their offspring called Ruaumoko who is seen as the god of earthquakes, volcanoes and subterranean activity. Tamoko is a name for Maori tattoo and the culture that surrounds it. It is a reflection of whakapapa (geneology) and history. It symbolises Maori identity and marks in time ones journey in life.

Polynesian Maori Tattoos

Maori Polynesian tattoos were born in the native land of New Zealand to the indigenous Maori people. The Maori tattoo or Ta Moko is one of the most important parts of the Maori culture. The meanings behind these tattoos are to show tribal history, family history, rank, and other identifying factors. Men and women had different styles of this tattoo but the theme is these tattoos carry a great deal of weight throughout the culture. Today, many other people outside the Maori culture are getting these kinds of tattoos much to the chagrin of the native people.

Hawaiian Tattoos

the tattoos are a bit different from other Polynesian tattoos in that they have a more personal meaning. Today, Hawaiian flowers, abstract tribals, and turtles are very popular. Specifically, one of the most popular tattoo designs in Hawaii is the hibiscus flower. To the women of Hawaii, the Hawaiian hibiscus flower is very symbolic and has a great deal of meaning. It is also the state flower of Hawaii.

Samoan Tattoos

In Samoa, these tattoos (or tatau) are very big and tell of social status and the rank of who wears it. They are an initiation in becoming a man. Until a young man’s tattooing is complete, they’re still considered boys in the culture. Women are also tattooed. Not as much as the men but much more than women in other areas.

Introduction To Dartmoor Zoological Park

Dartmoor Zoological National Park in the South West of England is the most southerly of Britain’s National Parks ( See in the Google Map at bottom ). It’s home to 368 square miles of ruggedly beautiful moorland, ancient ruins, wooded valleys and magnificent wildlife. Take a trip to the zoo with a difference. Dartmoor Zoological encloses some of the wildest, bleakest country in England: suitable terrain for The Hound of the Baskervilles one of Sherlock Holmes’ more notorious foes.                

There are over 200 animals at Dartmoor Zoological Park: from tiny stick insects to Ben our Brown Bear or Solomon our Lion all set in over 30 acres of beautiful parkland. Discover something different, learn something amazing and help us make tomorrow's world rich in animal life.You may of seen us on the BBC2 documentary series "Ben's Zoo" come and join us and try and spot some of the animals featured in the programme.We are open daily from 10am all year round. It is a wonderful place to bring children. Come and see the animals and enjoy new our new restaurant with-far reaching views, and delicious healthy food.

Set in 33 acres of beautiful woodland with some stunning views of the surrounding countryside, Dartmoor Zoological Park is a unique family owned zoo with a fantastic collection of animals. These include tigers, lions, jaguar, lynx and cheetah (the largest collection of big cats in the region), bears, wolves, tapir, capybara, racoons, meerkats, monkeys, a fantastic collection of bugs and reptiles and much more.
We work very hard to ensure that the development of the zoo does not have an adverse effect on the beautiful woodland environment which makes it quite unique among zoos

If you’ve read the book or seen the movie We Bought A Zoo, you’ll have some idea what Benjamin Mee and his family went through when they decided to take on this quirky dartmoor zoological park back in 2006. Despite having no experience in running a zoo or caring for wild animals, the Mee family were determined to preserve the park and its animals. And after a few teething problems including a big cat escaping they re-opened the doors to the public and re-instated a wonderful attraction tucked away in the scenic South Hams.

We have regular daily events such as public talks at feeding times, animal encounters and special activities for the kids during the holidays such as quiz-trails and face-painting. Our restaurant is a great place to stop off for a coffee and cake or a freshly cooked lunch and there's space set aside for the under-fives to roll around with toys.