Photography Part I: Angkor Wat

Today, once again I am taking you all to cherish the profound beauty and mystic tranquillity of   'Khmer Splendour' in Cambodia- Angkor Wat.

The wondrous temples of Angkor are  one of  the most astonishing, magnificent and enduring architectural achievements of mankind, built by Khmer civilisation between 802 and 1220 AD.

As the best-preserved temple at the site, Angkor Wat is the only one to have remained a significant religious centre since its foundation- first Hindu, then Buddhist. The temple epitomise the high classical style of Khmer art and architecture, is world's largest single religious monument. 

Angkor Wat has become the symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag and is one of the prime attraction in South East Asia.

This exceptional monument built during the early years of the 12th century by the Khmer Emperior Suryavarman II, dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu and is a symbolic representation of ancient Hindu cosmology.

Built over a period of 400 years by a number of different rulers and covering an area of more than 400 sq km, the temple complex of Angkor Wat was only rediscovered 150 years ago.

The magical ruins of Angkor are located amidst dense forests and  lash green farmland, near modern day Siem Reap city in Cambodia . These finest masterpieces are a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE Site.

Many of the temples at Angkor complex have been restored, and together they comprise the most significant site of Khmer architecture .

This is another short post and my humble attempt to explore the glory of this marvellous piece of art.

Many more to come as it is impossible to over the beauty of this splendid location in a few posts. 

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Please visit my other posts on Angkor Wat-Cambodia  here and here .

All pictures are photographed by me. Please, do not reuse them in any form without my written permission. Thanks.

Linking:

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THE FACE : Bayon

Picture taken at :   The Bayon Temple (Prasat Bayon in Khmer  language)

Built in : Late 12th century or early 13th century

King : Mahayana Buddhist King  Jayavarman VII

Location : The Bayon stands at the  centre of Jayavarman's capital, Angkor Thom

Cult : Buddhist






More on Bayon...coming up next !

Please do not reuse this picture in any form without my written permission. Thanks.


Linking:
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Ornate Cambodian Wonders : Preah Khan, Angkor

 Mystic  and magical...

profound tranquillity and calmness...

astonishing Khmer art and architecture...

 When I am completely lost in its mesmerising, ancient beauty...amidst the wondrous ruins in 
 Preah Khan, the huge, highly explorable monastic complex in Angkor region, Cambodia.


This super imposing monument of  Preah Khan or Prah Khan, built by Khmer King Jayavarman VII and was dedicated to his father. In harmony with the architecturally similar 
Ta Prohm, (which was dedicated to Jayavarman VII's mother) it originally severed as a Buddhist monastery and school, engaging over 1000 monks.




Preah Khan means 'The Sacred Sword', was built on the site of Jayavarman VII's victory over the invading Chams in 1191, like most other temples of Jayavarman's reign, is not uniform in style. Although a Buddhist monastery, there is nonetheless an abundance of Brahmanic iconography.




It is a short and quick post. Presently my mind is soaked in Cambodian wonders, will be back soon with loads of posts on ancient Khmer splendours.


Stay tuned!

All pictures are photographed by me. Please, do not reuse them in any form without my written permission. Thanks.

Stylish Spaces

It is truly said that  'Home is where the heart is'. This transformation from 'house' to 'home' should always be a passion project. One can easily create a delightful and cosy  home just by following a few simple home decor tips.


In today's jet-setting life an ideal home should be a no-nonsense,  practical, clutter free and easy to maintain whether contemporary or eclectic.


 Effective space planning and innovative ideas are very important since living spaces are getting smaller everyday. Don't get obsessive with any 'recent trends' just because it is 'in' ;  focus instead on creating a personalised space. 


Remember, a home speaks volumes about the home owner.

Always try to create a personalised look. Home is about an expression of individuality. Make your 'home' more of 'You' . Listen to your own heart and never get afraid of experimenting with new ideas. Add a personal touch with accessories, art and books.

 A home may not be 'picture perfect' always. Rather, a comfortable and practical home is       desirable, where we can unwind with family and friends. At least for me comfort comes first. A crisp, functional and easy space is really inviting after a long day.

Add a little 'Whimsy' to your decor. Effortless style is the best and the so called 'perfect' look is too monotonous at times. Finding beauty in the 'imperfect' is the real fun in design.

 Colour...colour and colour. Colour can make a space cosier. Use seasonal colours and concepts for your home. Mix and match the heavy, bright coloured upholstery and fabrics with the lighter ones.

5. Bold and beautiful fabric can change the flavour of a room completely. Take maximum advantage of natural light. 

If you are opting for vibrant colours for your rugs, pillows and other upholstery, use lighter shades on your walls. It gives the perfect balancing effect without going overboard.

   Mix and match : Use antique pieces and artifacts from different periods and mix them with the modern ones. It adds an unique character to any space.

 Always incorporate plants and fresh flowers into your decor. It can do wonders.  A simple floral arrangement can instantly uplift your mood and transform any regular space.

Keep moving things around until it gives you the desired look.  Use of mirrors is a smart and innovative way of making a room look bigger and brighter.

Incorporate things that soften the look, such as rugs, cushions and beautiful window treatment.

  Mix  different texture and material. Do not be afraid to experiment.

Try to avoid too many of tiny patterns. They make a room feel smaller.

Never underestimate flea markets and local fairs. Who knows you may find a treasure!!

Think out of the box and add some zing to your style.

Display your possessions artistically instead of tucking  them away into a cupboard. Be around things you love.

Know when to stop, it is your home and it should not look like a museum .

This article was published on Prismma Magazine Jan/Feb 2012.
 Do check here (Page 14 to 23).




Enjoy this post as I'm leaving for Cambodia...yes,  Angkor Wat  calling! 
Will be back with loads of 'Sunny' posts...it's a promise. Till then Happy Blogging :)














All pictures are photographed by me . Please, do not reuse them in any form without my written permission. Thanks.

Back....and Thanks Prismma :)

And after the long  silence, finally I am back from a 'Very Creative Indian Holiday'.
Thanks a bunch for your awesome e-mails and warm New Year wishes. 
I'm going to answer you within a day or two.
I missed you all....my beautiful readers, my super talented fellow bloggers and my lovely friends.

Travelling in India is a never ending journey.

  A constant inspiration, 

a complete education of body, mind and soul.

The vibrant culture and artistic elegance always fuel my imagination and enhance productivity.

There is always something magical about India ;

the 'colourful life',
the 'rich heritage',

the 'warmth of Indian hospitality',

the 'spiritual calmness'...

yes, I can go on and on.

I am signing off for the day. Catch you soon. 
Meanwhile, please, do check out my latest article on Prismma Magazine .
Read it  here. (Page 14 to 23).

Wishing You All 

A (very belated) Happy 2012 !!!






All pictures are photographed by me (In Jaisalmer and Jodhpur, Rajasthan,India). Please, do not reuse them in any form without my written permission. Thanks.

Rajasthan...Royal and Rustic...Through My Lens...!!!

I am going to start a New Series on the magnificent desert state of Rajasthan...the land of 'Kings'...that takes my heart away !...the vibrant state which fascinates me deeply !!...
For me, this princely state reflects the true image of my beloved country...India...and probably never ever I would be able to ignore the breathtaking beauty of this colourful paradise...!!!

The Majestic Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, Rajasthan...

The Royal Mehrangarh...another view..!

a Rajasthani village boy (tribal musician )inside the super impressive fort...!

Rajasthan and it's vibrant culture, history and heritage, colourful people and delicious food, myth and mystery, the forts and the palaces, the rustic and the royals....are an integral part of my design site...so stay tuned for many more to come in future...!!!

To Be Continued.....!!....!!!...

All pictures are taken by me. Please, do not reuse them in any form without my written permission.Thanks!

Magnificent Grand Palace of Bangkok...Amazing Thailand-Part 1

The Kingdom of Thailand ~ is an irresistible combination of  breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, outstanding hospitality and superb cuisine. This is my third visit to 'The Kingdom' so far...and I'm completely amazed by it's rich history, heritage and culture . Truly 'THE KINGDOM is AMAZING!!!'

Bangkok ~ The beautiful Thai capital is an independent, dynamic, influential and one of the leading cities of South East Asia. The dazzling, spectacular Grand Palace of Bangkok is a grand old dame indeed. It is undoubtedly the city's most famous landmark. Built in 1782 and served for 150 years as the home of the Thai Kings.The palace has remained the seat of spirituality and power in Thailand .
Here, a salute to the creativity and craftsmanship of the very talented Thai people.

Kinnon/Kinnor ( The male version of Kinnoni/Kinnori~ Mythological creature...half bird, half human at Wat Phra Kaew Temple ( Temple of The Emerald Buddha)....inside the Grand Palace complex, Bangkok.

Beautiful  architecture and intricate details...art of Siam (Thailand)

   'YAKSHAS'~The demonic guards at the temple entrances...;

 Angels and demons guards at the temples..!

 Flavour of Orient...

an unique Thai experience...

immense...and ..royal..!!:)

End of a spectacular day....full bloomed original pink Thai lotus and Grand palace of Bangkok (at the back drop)

ALL PICTURES ARE PHOTOGRAPHED BY ME. PLEASE, DO NOT REUSE THEM IN ANY FORM WITHOUT MY  WRITTEN PERMISSION. THANK YOU.

For my USA readers : Wishing you all a Very Happy Forth of July!






P.S. : More posts on Thailand/ Bangkok/South East Asia are coming shortly...stay tuned !!:)

....and sweet nothings...:)

Happiness lies in simplicity...

 

stop...and smell the roses!
watch the spectacular sunrise 

play with kids...

give a warm hug :)

enjoy the first rain after long summer

first bloom of spring...

and... falling in love...

with the same person...!

again and again...:) 
isn't it 'beauty of life'...!!:))




All images are taken by me. Please, do not reuse them in any way without my permission. Thanks!




P.S.:  Lovely folks, catch you soon once am back to Singapore...till then happy blogging !:)