Learn Marathi - A quick Guide

While learning any language takes more than an age for human being, we all need to pick up on the basics of the language of the natives to get the best cooperation and hence most comfort when on tour. Here is an attempt to translate few of the frequently used marathi words..a 10 minute dictionary for you.

Hello	Namaskaar
Welcome	Swaagat (formal) / Yaa (informal)
How are you?	Kasey aahat?
Fine	Bara ahey (men) / Bari ahey(women)
Glad to meet you	Tumhala bhetun aanand zhaala
What is your name?	Aaple naav kaay?
I'm John	Mee John
Come in	Aat yaa
Sit down	Basaa
Stop	Thambaa
Go forward	Pudhey Jaa
Go back	Maagey Jaa
Go straight	Saral Zaa
I want to get down here	Mala ikdey utraiche ahey
Next stop	Pudhcha stop
Listen	Aika
Please	Krupa karoon
Thank you	Dhanyavaad
Goodbye	Nirop gheto
I want	Mala havay
Can you help me please?	Krupa karun mala madat kartaa kaa
I agree	Mee sahmat ahey
I disagree	Mee sahmat nahee
Good	Changla / Chhaan
Congratulations	Abhinandan
I request (you)	Mee vinanti karto / karte
Thanks a lot	Anek dhanyavaad
Excuse me/sorry	Malaa maaf kara
I apologize	Mee chuklo
Let's go	Chala Jaauya
How much Will it cost?	Hyachi kimmat kaay ahey
Is this water good for drinking?	Hey pyayche paani ahey kaa
Can I make a phone call from here?	Mee ek phone karu shakte kaa
Where can I hire a taxi?	Mala taxi kothe milel
Where does this road go?	Haa rasta kothe jaato
Don't speak so fast	Itkya vegaat bolu nakaa
When do you go back?	Apan kevhaa paratjanar
Come back again	Parat yaa
Zero	Shunya
One	Ek
Two	Don
Three	Teen
Four	Char
Five	Paach
Six	Saha
Seven	Saat
Eight	Aath
Nine	Nau
Ten	Daha

Continue Reading...

Around Mumbai

Source: anytimetourinfo.com

Alibag (112 Kms): This fine beach resort was the home of Shivaji’s admiral, Angre. There are two sea forts known as Khanderi and Undheri. Nearby, Chaul is an old fortress town. It is also convinient base for visiting Kihim and Nagaon beaches. This resort is well connected by road with Mumbai via Panvel and Pen.
Ambarnath (70 Kms): The Hindu pilgrim centre is famous for thr 11th century Somnath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also popular picnic spot connected by local trains and Mumbai.
Bassein Fort: The 15th century Portuguese Fort is 76.8 km by sub-urban electric train to Bassein Rd and thence 4.8 Km by road.
Karnala Bird Sanctuary and Fort (61 Kms): The Sanctuary lies on the Mumbai-Goa road. An old fort nearby is quite interesting.
Matheran (105 Kms): This clean and quiet hill resort in the Western Ghats is a favorite weekend destination for Mumbaites. Some of the important sites are Charlotte Lake, the panorama and the Sunset points and various other view points. Matheran is also known for cane and leather articles and chikki, a special sweetmeat. The Toy Train plying between Neral and Matheran was started in March 1907, covering a distance of 21 kms on 610 mm guage. The beautiful section is very popular among visitors.
Murad-Janjira(165 Kms): The beautiful coastal town is famous for Janjira, an impregnable island-fortress 5Km south of Murud. It was built in 1140, Siddi Johar and became the capital of Siddis during 16th century. The fort remained virtually invincible in its lifespan. The palace of the Nawab and the Janjira Caves are worth visiting. Murud lies 45 kms south of Alibag and the nearest railhead is at Roha(50 Km) on the konkan Railway.
Tansa lake and Sanctuary: Tansa lake is 103 km, by sub-urban electric train to Atgaon and thence 14.4 km by road. The lush forests around the lake are haven for many species of birds and animals.
Vaitarna Lake & Dam: The scenic lake and dam lies on the Kalyan-Nashik railway route. It is 122 Km by sub urban electric train to Khardi and Thence 12.8 km by road.

Continue Reading...

Beaches of Mumbai

Source: anytimetourinfo.com

Chowpatty Beach: The popular beach in the heart of Mumbai has a special place in the life of Mubaites. It is the venue for important festivals like Coconut day and Ganesh Chathurthi Immersions.
Erangal Beach: 35 Kms by suburban electric train to Malad, thence by road. Hotels and Shacks are available at this lovely beach.
Goral Beach: The clean and calm beach of Gorai, is located 59 km from the city center, nearest railhead is Borivali, from there by bus or auto to Gorai creek, which has to be crossed by ferry. The famous theme park – Essel world is located nearby.
Juhu Beach: The second most popular beach in mumbai lies on the Bandra-Khar road, about twenty kms from the city centre. The crowded beach lined by bangalows and high rise apartments offers various entertainment and amusements.
Madh, Marve & Manori Beaches: 44.8 Km, 38.4 km and 40 Km respectively by suburban electric train to malad and thence 12 km. 5.6 km and 6.4 km respectively by road. Ferry services available from Marve to Manori beach.

Continue Reading...

Some Sacred Sites

Source: anytimetourinfo.com

Babulnath Temple: This temple of Lord Shiva to the south of Malabar Hill, was built in 1780 and a tall spire was added to the structure in 1900. It enshrines a black stone Shivalingam and idols of various gods and godesses.
Bholeshwar Temple: It is dedicated to Lord Shiva also known as Bholeshwar(the pure one). The temple is covered with brass plates and has a red flag adorned with representations of the sun and moon.
ISKON or Hare Rama Hare Krishna Temple: The Magnificient shrine at Juhu is worth visiting, especially during the morning and evening prayers.
Mahalakshmi Temple: The shrine of Mahalakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity is set picturesque on a rocky promontory at the edge of the sea and is one of the most popular shrines of Mumbai. The present temple was built in the 18th century and snshrines elaborately ornamented statues of Mahalakshmi, Mahakali and Mahasaraswati.
Muma Devi Temple: It is dedicated to Mumba Devi, a pattron goddess of the city and is believed to have been originally built by Koli fisherman in the 1st century B.C. The temple was erected at the present site of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and was demolished by the British in 1739. The new shrine was later reconstructed at Kalbadevi in 1753 and enshrines a beautifully ornamented image of the goddess.
Siddhi Vinayak Temple: Mumbaites have a great respect and devotion for this holy shrine of lord Ganesha at Prabhadevi.
Walkeshwar Temple: This ancient temple near Malabar hill is said to have been built in 1000 AD by Silhara Kings. It was vandalised by the Portuguese in the 16th century and was beautifully rebuilt by Rama Kamthi, a wealthy Brahmin in 1715. As per legends Lord Rama made a Shivlingam out of sand (Waluk) and prayed here. The sacred banganga Tank nearby is said to have been created by Lord Rama.
Afghan Church or St. John’s Church: The magnificient church of Colaba, with wide Gothic arches and beautiful stained glass windows was built in 1847, in the memory of the British soldiers who fell in the Sindh and Afghan campaigns of 1838 and 1843.
St. Thomas Cathedral: The church as fort is a fine blend of the classical and Gothic styles of architecture. It also has several intresting memorials and monuments.
The Gloria Church: The church located at byculla was originally built by Portuguese in 1632. It was demolished and built in Gothic style in 1911.
Haji Ali: It houses the tomb of a muslim saint, who died while on pilgrimage to Mecca. When casket containing his mortal remains floated and came to rest on a rocky bed in the sea, devotees constructed the tomb and mosque at this spot. The mosque set amidst the waters of the sea can be approached through a causeway, which gets submerged during the high tide.
Raudat Tahara: It has marble mosque and mausoleum built by the Dawoodi Bohra Muslims in honour of their spiritual leader, the late Dr.Syedna Tahar Saifuddin.

Continue Reading...

Parks, Gardens and Amusement Parks

Source: anytimetourinfo.com

Kamla Nehru Park: The children’s park named after the wife of Jawahar Lal Nehru is perched on the beautiful slopes of Malabar Hill. It was laid in 1952 and commands a panoramic view of marine drive and chowpatty beach. The “Old Womans Shoe” along with the swings and slides in the park are centre of attraction for children.
Pherozshah Mehta Gardens ( Hanging Garden) : This beautiful garden was laid out in 1881, atop a water reservoir. It is also a popular picnic spot and the sun-set view from here is spectacular.
Veermata Jijabai Bhonsle Udyan( Victoria Gardens): The lush garden comprehensive complex of a Botanical Garden, Zoo and Museum, which has cultural and historical exhibits, Elephant, camel, pony and boat rides are available.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park: It is located near Borivalli railway station, which is about 35 Kms fom sub urban electric train from the town. The park also called as Krishnagiri Upvan, has the Gandhi Smriti Mandir on Pavillion Hill. The Lion Safari Park is very exciting. Kanheri Caves, one of the largest groups of Buddhist caves in western india are another attraction in the park.
Essel World & Water Kingdom( 70 Kms, near Gorai beach): This very popular theme park offers exciting rides and games. The water Kingdom nearby is great experience for any water loving individual. Nearest railhead is Malad or Borivalli from where the journey has to be made by road and sea. It is also approachable by road via Bhayandar on Western Express Highway.
Fantacy Land( 29 Kms, at Jogeshwari): This amusement park is smaller in size and cheaper as compared to Essel World.

Continue Reading...

Reaching Mumbai

Source: anytimetourinfo.com
Reaching There:
Airport: Mumbai has two airports Sahar(international) & Santacruz(domestic)
Railhead: It is one of the important railway centres of the country.
Road: National Highways No. 3,4,6,8,9 and 17 radiate from the city.

Continue Reading...

Museums, Memorials and Planetoriums

Source: anytimetourinfo.com

Bahu Daji Lad Museum( Victoria & Albert Museum): The museum amidst lush veermata Jijabai Bhonsle Udyan was originally established in 1855, as a treasure house of the decorative and industrial arts. Today it has a rich collection of archeological finds, original maps, photographs, prints and paintings depicting the history of Mumbai. The museum was honoured with an award of Excellence by UNESCO under its Asia-Pacific Heritage awards for culture heritage conservation Programme..
Bombay Natural History Society ( Hornbill House): It is located near Prince of Wales museum and is a treasure house of natures wonders.
Mini Bhavan ( Gandhi Memorial): Mahatma Gandhi often resided here during his visits to the city. It is now preserved as a national memorial. The building houses a research library, a film and recording archive and a set of diorama on Gandhiji’s life.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastusangrahalay( Prince of Wales Museum): It is one of the best museums in the country and was earlier named after King George V, who as a prince of wales laid the foundation stone in 1905. The museum is housed in an impressive building built in Indo – Saracenic style and surrounded by well laid out gardens.
Nehru Planetarium: This imposing structure at worli houses the only astronomical centre of the city. The circular sky theatre of the Planetarium recreates an image of the sky as seen from anywhere on the earth. A library here has a rich wealth of books specializing on astronomy, astrophysics and space sciences. Nehru Science Centre, adjacent to the planetarium is especially designed for children and youth.

Continue Reading...

Places to Visit

Source: anytimetourinfo.com

Gateway of India:
The 26 meters high archway was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911. It has a main, large arch flanked by two smaller arches, at the top are four spires enclosing a small space with large balconieson either side. An Equestrain statue of chhatrapati Shivaji and statue of Swami Vivekananda have been installed here. There are plenty of launches and cruisers anchored in the sea near the archway, which carry tourists to the famous Elephants Caves. The famous Taj Mahal Hotel facing the Gateway of India is also a prominent landmark of Mumbai.
Elephanta Caves(9 Kms. – 11 nautical miles – by sea): The 7th century rock cut cave temples on Gharapuri or Elephanta island dedicated to Lord Shiva is a world Heritage Site of UNESCO. The Maheshmurti in the main cave is one of the most renowned and attractive sculptures. Here Shiva is shown in one single carving as the creatoe, protector, Destroyer of the Universe. Other dieties of Hindu trinity, Brahma and Vishnu are also shown in the panels along with Shiva. The island can be approached by launches abd cruises available at the Gateway of India.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus( Victoria Terminus): This first railhead of India is one of the largest and oldest train terminus of the east. Designed by F.W.Stevens in Gothic style, the modern terminus is one of the most magnificient railway stations of the world and was built over a ten year period from 1878-88 at a cost of Rs. 16,35,562. The station has an imposing dome surmounted by a figure symbolising progress. Recently, it has been listed as a world Heritage site by UNESCO.
Hutatma Chowk (Flora Fountain): The stone figure of Flora, the Roman Goddess of flowers is set at the junction of five busy streets. It is surrounded by fountains and host of mythological figures and was built in honour of Sir Bartle Frere, Governer of Bombay(1862-1867). There is also a martyr’s memorial in the same premises. Today the area around the square is a flourishing business centre of Mumbai.
High Court: The imposing white pinnacled building was built in 1878 and designed by Gen A . Fuller in English Gothic style. It is 169 metres long and the central structure soars upto 54.2 metres, surmounted by statues representing Justive and Mercy.
Rajabai Clock Tower: The 19th century clock tower at the university campus rises to a height of 79 metres and is the most conspicuous landmark of Mumbai.
Town Hall: This colonnaded building overlooking the Horniman circle houses the Asiatic Society Library.
Netagi Subhash Marg or Marine Drive: It is one of the most beautiful and popular promonades in the world. Reclaimed from the backbay, the drive starts from Nariman point Via Chowpatty Beach upto Malabar hill. Exhillarating view of the promenade can be enjoyed from the Malabar Hill, especially at night, when the string of lights on the curve shine like pearls and appears like a ‘Queen’s Necklace’.
Taraporewala Aquarium: It houses an exotic collection of marine and fresh water fish.

Continue Reading...

Introduction

Source: anytimetourinfo.com

Mumbai, the financial capital of india, is a modern metropolis as well as a living museum of the British era in India. It was originally a cluster of seven islands namely, Colaba, Fort, Byculla, Parel, Worli, Matunga and Mahim, which have been linked through successive reclamations. In 1534, the seven islands were cede to Portugal by the Sultan of Gujarat in the Treaty of Bassein. The Major island of the group Mumbadevi, was passed on to the Britishers in 1661, as part of the dowry when Catherine of Braganza married England’s Charles II. In 1665, the British occupied all the seven islands and leased them to East India Company. Today, the Vibrant metropolis presents a true cosmopolitan outlook.

Continue Reading...