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Showing posts from July, 2015

Why Abdul Kalam was the 'People's President'

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He remains undoubtedly the most loved and admired Indian after Jawaharlal Nehru and in sheer numbers, easily tens of thousands more, adored him than the first prime minister of India. What has made Avul Pakir Jainulabudeen Abdul Kalam (who told me that I was the first one who asked him for his full name way back in July 1980) so is his raising and being, a low profile one with modest beginnings hawking newspapers for the extra buck at that, in his first 50 years. It is this that made him the fierce nationalist that he was and continued to be an inspirational Indian to newer generations of younger Indians even in his 60s, 70s and 80s. And true to his life, particularly the years after he was president, he passed on while lecturing at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong. These striking qualities of an endearing human being with a self effacing nature were evident when I met him for the first time in July 1980 moments after his very first crowning moments of triumph as a ro

Five ways APJ Abdul Kalam wanted to change India

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To battle corruption to make India the next big thing, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam's initiatives involved the youth at almost every step of the way. He launched a Facebook page to share inspiring stories and another initiative to help children give back to, instead of take from society. He was the inspiration for a programme which makes the study of science immensely interesting. And as the youth (or something like it), we can only hope that one day we can realise his biggest vision - the vision he had for India in 2020. 1.   The What Can I Give movement In 2012, Dr Kalam launched the self-governed 'What Can I Give Movement’ to spread the message and idea of 'giving' among the youth. And the movement strived to replace the attitude of greed and corruption that comes from the thought, "what can I take" with an attitude eponymous with the initiative. 2.   Billion Beats Dr Kalam's epaper Billion Beats, in circulation since 2007, was later converted

Kalam was still smiling when death stared him in the face 14 years ago

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The last time death stared him in the face, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam was composed; with a reassuring smile playing on his lips. The extraordinary man was a picture of imperturbable confidence though death appeared imminent just before the Pawan Hans helicopter he was travelling in crashed in Jharkhand’s Bokaro district in September 2001 — nearly 10 months before Kalam took over as India’s 11th President and 14 years before he finally lost his battle for life following a cardiac arrest on Monday.It was on September 30, 2001 when Kalam, then the Principal Scientific Adviser to Prime Minister, had boarded the helicopter from Ranchi on way to Bokaro where he had to attend a school function. “Though the pilots had informed us mid-air that there was something terribly wrong with the Helicopter’s rotor and it sounded like imminent death to all of us; Kalam remained composed with his signature smile playing on his lips. He even advised the two pilots not to worry,” said Samaresh Singh, a forme

Dr APJ Abdul Kalam

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1. He was the youngest 83-year-old India has ever seen:   Even when he died, it was while delivering a lecture to students at IIM Shillong on a liveable plant. As Meghalaya chief secretary PBO Warjiri said, he passed away in his element, while delivering a lecture to youngsters, on a subject he loved. 2. He was the perfect symbol of meritocratic India, the ideal citizen, and the most positive Indian:   Born in a village to a poor fishing family in Rameswaram, he rose through dint of his own hard work. 3. He was a Renaissance man:   A Muslim, a player of the veena, as comfortable with the Quran as the Bhagvad Gita, Secretary of DRDO, president of India, as happy to write scientific papers as to write bestsellers for young India. 4. He always put India First:   Whether it was as a scientist or President, he was a patriot first. From reportedly advising Sonia Gandhi to not becoming prime minister in 2004 to fathering the Pokharan explosion, he always said what he felt was right

Blue Mosque

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A key entry on any list of major tourist attractions in Turkey, the picturesque sight of the Blue Mosque will impress even the hardiest sightseer. Built by the young sultan Ahmet I, the Blue Mosque was designed to rival its neighbour the Hagia Sophia and, with its hierarchy of increasingly large domes, this vast complex helped define Istanbul’s skyline. The interior is just as grand and includes swathes of blue tiles which give this magnificent building its name.  

Istanbul Archaeology Museums

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Walk to Istanbul's three-in-one equivalent of the British Museum via the grounds of Topkapi Palace or through Gulhane Park. If time is tight, go straight to the large porticoed building housing the glorious sarcophagus of Alexander which depicts scenes from the life of Alexander the Great in vivid 3D. Kids will love the model Trojan Horse in the children's section. Then pop into the lovely Tiled Pavilion, one of the city's oldest Ottoman structures, beautifully restored to show off its finest ceramics. Finally, catch a glimpse of a peace treaty from 1269 BC preserved in the part of the museum nearest to the gate.

Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam

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There are several magnificent steamy Ottoman bathhouses to choose from in the city, including the  ÇemberlitaÅŸ ,  CaÄŸaloÄŸlu ,  Galatasaray  and  Sülemaniye baths , but in 2011 for the first time it's also possible for visitors to try out the spectacular 16th-century Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam right in Sultanahmet Square and designed for Suleiman the Magnificent's scheming wife Roxelana. Think acres of marble, the sound of running water echoing around stupendous domes, and a massage fit for a sultan. You'll come out almost purring.

Bodrum Castle

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An imposing tourist attraction in one of Turkey’s most popular resorts, Bodrum Castle has provided many a visitor with an afternoon of exploration when a break from the sun lounger is required. This impressive 15th century citadel was originally built by Christian knights and today also houses the fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology .

Topkapi Palace

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If there is one absolute must-see in Istanbul, it has to be the Topkapi Palace, home to generations of sultans and their wives, who were closeted in the famous harem. A collection of lush green courtyards and delicate kiosks, the Topkapi boasts a treasury to put the crown jewels in the shade, as well as views to die for over the Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus and Golden Horn. The secretive harem – really just the family quarters – is a warren of lushly-tiled rooms wrapped round a gem of a Turkish bath. Try to visit on a day when no cruise ship is in town to avoid the worst of the crowds.

Troy

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One of Turkey’s most famous tourist attractions, the story of Troy has had everything from Homer’s ancient yarns to the full Hollywood stylings. Yet to truly get a feel for this legendary city you need to explore its walls and take a stroll around its streets, homes and theatres. Did the famed events described by Homer take place here? There’s simply no definitive answer, but as your mind wanders while you stroll through this timeless place you might just find yourself happily believing the legends...  

Aya Sofya

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After decades in which scaffolding cluttered the interior of Emperor Justinian's sixth-century Byzantine masterpiece, the thrill of being able to experience the extraordinary spaciousness of this famous church-turned-mosque-turned museum is hard to overstate. Downstairs the building is largely empty; the best of the glittering mosaics lurk in the galleries upstairs. Newly opened are the tombs of several early Ottoman sultans and their slaughtered sons – before primogeniture new sultans immediately had all potential rivals killed. Before the end of the year, the city's finest carpets will go on display in the soup kitchen added after the church was turned into a mosque.

Basilica Cistern

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The city's most unexpectedly romantic attraction, the Basilica Cistern, offers an insight into the complicated system that once brought drinking water into Istanbul from Thrace (an area of the south-east Balkans now constituting Turkish land n the European mainland, and a chunk of Bulgaria). Constructed in the sixth century and then forgotten for centuries, the cistern that once stored the water has been fitted with lights and music. Fish flitter around the bases of the 336 columns that support the ceiling. Don't miss the upside-down head of Medusa that forms the bottom of one column, proof that Byzantine builders saw Roman relics as little more than reusable rubble.

ZAPOTE BRIDGE

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A bridge that connects the Zapote river of Las Pinas City and Bacoor, Cavite, Zapote Bridge played an important role in Philippine history because of the Battle of Zapote Bridge on February 16, 1897, the second largest battle of Filipino-American War that took place in this site. Monument parks were established on both ends of the bridge These are but just 10 historical places among the rich history the Philippines has. So before one forgets from where he or she came from, sit back, relax, and discover the riches of history that brought us to enjoy the beauty of the Philippine country.

INTRAMUROS

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The oldest district and historical spot of Manila which came from a latin word Intramuros – meaning “within the walls ”. This was also known as  Ciudad Murada  or “walled city” for its most popular feature: a nearly three-mile-long routine of large rock surfaces and fortifications that almost absolutely encompasses the whole region. You can ride a Kalesa (horse with a cart) to tour the place or take a walk and find Fort Santiago, Rizal’s Shrine, San Agustin Chapel and art gallery, Manila Chapel, many little plazas and contemporary dining places, most of which a combination in the nearby structures.

FORT SANTIAGO

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Built in 1571 for Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, Fort Santiago or Fuerza de Santiago is the oldest Spanish fortress in the Philippines and one of the major attractions inside Intramuros in Manila. These days, among the Fort’s most well-preserved destinations are the Japanese-era M4 Sherman container, WWII artillery and subterranean channels used by the Japanese, the former Spanish dungeon of Plaza de Armas, and Rizal Shrine which was the prison cell of the Philippines’ national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. The final footsteps of Rizal before he was executed are signified on the fort’s floor. A museum is also present depicting the brave life and last poetry (Mi Ultimo Adios) of Rizal.

RIZAL PARK

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Also known as Luneta Park, Rizal Park was named after the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal. He was executed there on December 30, 1896, which sparked the Philippine Revolution against the Spanish colonizers. Also, the political rallies of Ferdinand Marcos and Corazon Aquino took place in Rizal. It is there where dictatorial government of Marcos ended. Rizal Park is located at the heart of Manila, along Manila Bay, where the historical World War II took place. Because of its beautiful and garden and grassy lawns, it is a favorite spot for unwinding and socializing. It is also a bonding place for family picnics on Sundays and holidays. The bronze and granite Rizal monument is among the most famous cultural land marks in the country, and underneath this monument are the remains of our national hero.

MALACANANG PALACE

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This is where the current Philippine president during his/her term. The palace is located along the north bank of the Pasig River in Manila. The name came from a Tagalog phrase, “may lakan diyan,” which means “a rich man lives there”. But the Spaniards said that the name came from “mama lakaya”, which can be translated as “the fishermen who laid their catch there”. Inside the complex of Malacanang Palace, you will find Bonifacio Hall. It is the Premier Guest house used by President Ferdinand Marcos, which later became the office of President Corazon Aquino. During the leadership of President Joseph Ejercito Estrada, this hall was again used as his residence. Aside from Bonifacio Hall, other places that you can see in Malacanang are the Kalayaan Hall, Mabini Hall and the New Executive Building. There’s also a Malacanang Park, which has a golf course.

PACO PARK

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Located in General Luna Street, Paco Park was built by the Dominican Fathers in 1820 for the purpose of burying the dead of the Spanish elites. It was once the municipal cemetery of Manila for autocratic families who resided in old Manila or Intramuros during the Spanish colonial era. Dr. Jose P Rizal was interred there after his execution and was later exhumed and was buried back to Luneta a.k.a. Bagumbayan, where he was executed. It is now a recreational area where, when Friday arrives, “Paco Park Presents” feature the finest musical talents and chorales. Local and guest stars perform for an evening of classical and traditional Filipino music.

Blenheim

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Blenheim Palace, near Oxford, stands in a romantic park created by the famous landscape gardener 'Capability' Brown. It was presented by the English nation to John Churchill, first Duke of Marlborough, in recognition of his victory in 1704 over French and Bavarian troops. Built between 1705 and 1722 and characterized by an eclectic style and a return to national roots, it is a perfect example of an 18th-century princely dwelling.

New Orleans

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New Orleans is known for its European-style architecture, mouth-watering Creole cuisine and all-around mysticism. And as its backbone is music: Jazz, blues, rock 'n' roll and Zydeco tunes ooze from every city crevice. But for many, the main reason to visit is Mardi Gras, an over-the-top party with Carnaval traits, such as masks, music and an all-around wild time. Even if you don't make it to Mardi Gras, you'll still find a party year-round, with revelers pouring out of Bourbon Street clubs until the wee hours of the morning. Despite past environmental disasters — namely the BP Oil Spill, Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Isaac — New Orleans continues to thrive. Over the past several years, major efforts have been made to restore the distinct districts. Today, the Crescent City looks almost as good as new. So start your visit in the French Quarter, where colonial heritage still survives. From here, you can explore the major architectural sites before enjoying a hea

Charleston

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Centuries-old mansions, Spanish moss-draped trees, spooky cemeteries, cobblestone walks: in a word, Charleston. As you walk the gas lamp-lit streets at night, past horse-drawn carriages and the antebellum architecture, you just might think you've traveled back in time. But just because this South Carolina city is proud to celebrate its heritage doesn't mean it's stuck in the past: Charleston boasts innovative restaurants, interesting shops, contemporary art galleries and the world-class Spoleto Festival USA. This is  the  place to experience the genteel South  —  after all, it was the home of suave "Gone with the Wind" character, Rhett Butler. History pervades almost every aspect of the Holy City, from the majestic homes-turned-museums to the landmarks that promote the city's role in United States history. Civil War buffs should head to Fort Sumter, where the first shot of the War between the States was fired. Meanwhile, shopaholics looking for locally

Philadelphia

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With its rich historical heritage, Philadelphia is one of the United States' most visited cities. After all, both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were signed here in  Independence Hall . Renaissance man Benjamin Franklin once called this city home. And before  Washington, D.C.  usurped its role, Philadelphia served as the country's capital. Yet the city is far from being stuck in its glorious past. The Philly of today is filled with notable museums, bumping nightlife, beloved sports teams and a thriving restaurant scene that encompasses more than just the ubiquitous cheese steak.

Williamsburg

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For such a historical town, Williamsburg -- as tourists know it -- is fairly new. It wasn't until the 20th century that the downtown area of this Virginia Peninsula city was restored. Now you can tread the same steps that our Founding Fathers once took -- in fact, in Williamsburg, you just might even find yourself trekking  alongside  those men (or at least, alongside some talented, costumed interpreters acting out their parts). The area isn't a novelty, though. Instead, Williamsburg and the nearby cities of Jamestown and Yorktown are breathing monuments to some of the best-known figures of our colonial history. Patrick Henry, George Washington, John Smith, Pocahontas and more -- they all receive their due.

Washington D.C.

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With its marbled monuments and high-profile politicos, Washington, D.C., has long been saddled with a reputation as a stuffy government-driven town. A "city of southern efficiency and northern charm," as John F. Kennedy once described it, Washington is often seen by outsiders as slow and inefficient. But these days, our nation's capital is awash with a new energy, transforming itself into an exciting, faster-paced East Coast vacation destination. Although government is still the sun around which this city orbits, the District also offers a host of renowned museums and interesting neighborhoods. And with a recent explosion of restaurants, cafes, boutique shops and clubs, D.C. is transitioning into a thriving cultural hub. As the D.C. Tourism Board is emphasizing through its "DC Cool" campaign, this isn't the Washington you remember from your middle school field trip — it's much hipper than that. You can choose a traditional D.C. adventure, filled w

Boston

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Boston — or "Bahston," as the locals say — is not only a hub for baseball, brownstones and bookish collegiate types. It's also home to America's first large free municipal public library, the first subway system, the first public school and the first public park. To say the city is historic would be an understatement, but this wicked-smart college town doesn't linger in the past, either. A well-rounded trip to Boston integrates the classic with the contemporary: Split your time between cherished sites like the Paul Revere Houseand Faneuil Hall and cutting-edge attractions like the Museum of Fine Arts. Venture to Beacon Hill and you'll stumble upon the graceful mansions of yore juxtaposed with chic boutiques and innovative hotels. So, yes, come first for the history, but don't miss out on the opportunity to sample the unmistakable Beantown flavor. The city's darker side has garnered a rough-and-tumble reputation thanks to Hollywood appearances in

3 Do you see the quaint city of the world?

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Learn the mysterious cities of the world whose stories about will surprise you. The small town nestled at the edges of the distant countries are in chronic phase, where ordinary people's own government, limits the market. Read about these three cities Whittier: Country: Alaska What's special: The 14-story building in the town, most of the population lives. Around 200 local people live in this building, which towers Begic says. Other ordinary people, boats, vehicles, etc. live. In 1956 the building was used as army barracks but today Yhgan police station, post office, stores, churches, video rental stores have

Marloth Park

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Where: South Africa What's special: Marloth Park area is located near the Kruger National Park, which is known for its wildlife. Even people living outside their homes, fences are not allowed. National park in areas near human being can be seen wild animals roam freely. From the wild monkey lion is present here. It is the only city of its kind apart Next >>

Long Yerbyen

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Where: Norway What's special: These city in the northeastern part of the world the situation. Bury the dead people are restricted. Due to the extremely cold area around the town which bears nearly 3 thousand to escape the icy powerful rifle would carry a local resident.

By 2030, millions of people are affected by natural events

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The UN report said that due to natural incidents 9.8 billion to India every year to find lime.

June 30 will be halted for a second time

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Coming June 30 day officially is going to stay a second longer, because on Tuesday we will stop for a second time. Usually, where there are 60 seconds in a minute, 61 seconds of the last minute of the day will be June 30. The US space agency NASA has endorsed it. Indeed, there are 86,400 seconds in a day, but this time an extra second on June 30, the leap second will be added. NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland Daniel McMillan said, "Earth's rotation is slowing down gradually, so the extra leap second has been added." Coordinated Universal Time, or UTC, according to the case, which are used in people's daily life. UTC Atomic Time, where a second term in Attms of cesium is based on the anticipated transition Ilektromagnetik. These are more reliable so that the cesium clock Transition 1.4 million years may be right. NASA said in a statement, "the earth, moon and sun because of the gravitational force between Earth's rotation is

Birthday Special: 5 Important Things to Know about Stephen Hawkins

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World renowned scientist Stephen Hawking modern science due to his knowledge and research have a distinct identity. 5 Important Things to Know about them .. 1. He was born January 8, 1942 in the United Kingdom. 2. Despite his physical disability are today the world's largest scientific. They called Amayotrofik lateral Selerosis disease. The disease of the nervous system in the human body movement gradually goes over and Communication Power is finished. Hawkins any part of their body except the brain does not function. 3. Hawkins told once that his illness has played the biggest role in making them scientific. Disease before they were paid little attention to his studies, but he seems that he is not alive during the disease are going to stay, after which he put all his Dhyana Research. Hawkins did research on black halls. 4. Black Halls in 1974 by the extraordinary research to turn his theory because they have become a celebrity in the world of science. Hawkins said t

India's explosive entry from MOM Space Club

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Beijing Institute of Space Sciences and Technology, according to the major milestones in space science mailing list of six countries, including India's. A look at the journey of space: Thanks to Mars Orbiter Mission: In Asia, India is the only country which has succeeded in sending spacecraft on Tue. Therefore, we have placed first in Asia. The names of the key nations involved in the space program: 1. US 2. Europe 3. Russia 4. China 5. Japan 6. India Space program to begin soon Country: 1. Canada 2. South Korea Since 1994, yet more than 92 spacecraft have been launched. Russia, the US and China have one of the most space programs began. Russia: 37 US: 23 China: 16 In 2013 alone, 81 space launches have been made. India is a long way to go: Last year, India has just 4 Atnriksh projection. From 1975 until March 28, 2015, India has launched a satellite into space 77 .

Digital India: cheap, world class too?

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Under this campaign, what is happening? How will chests? What are the obstacles? What are the experts saying? Digital India campaign, examining every aspect of the BBC Hindi special series. Who is considered the father of the telecommunications revolution in India by Sam Pitroda told BBC Google Hangout basic issues such as call drop and connectivity battling India in India how the digital revolution is possible?   Also Pitroda are told about his association with Rajiv Gandhi and Narendra Modi, calling the possibility of coming back to India. Read Sam Pitroda thought ...   Rajiv Gandhi was at the time of the introduction of digital India. In the 1980s, the National Informatics Centre (NIS, NIC) was created. Since then a lot of people in this area are trained. Systems are developed. In the last 30 years we have learned a lot. Many new things are new. Today the government is saying that India is becoming digital, so it is just Reepackejing. In the last several years, which has be

Hindi language, history and period

The emergence of Hindi word 'Sindhu' is associated with. 'Indus' Sindh' is called the river. The area around the Indus River Indus region is called. Sanskrit word 'Sindhu', Hindu or Indian has come into contact with the Iranians. The Indian word pronounced by Iranians in the Iranian language 'A' suffix seemingly 'Hindik' is the term meaning "of the Indian. The Greek word 'Indica' or the English term 'India' is the "Hindik 'itself has developed. AD 1000 is derived from the Hindi literature. Earlier in the literature obtained corruption it can be considered a prelude to Hindi. The birth of modern languages ​​from various forms of corruption is as follows: Corruption - Modern Languages Surseni - Western Hindi, Rajasthani, Pahari, Gujarati Diabolical - Lahnda, Punjabi Bracd - Sindhi Maharashtri - Marathi Magadhi - Bihari, Bengali, Oriya, Assamese Western Hindi - standing bid or Kaurvi, Bridge, Haryanvi, Bundel, ka