Dhyankaksh, the school of equanimity and even sightedness
Recognizing the architectural exquisiteness and spiritual significance of Dhyankaksh, also known as School of Equanimity and Even- Sightedness, the Tourism Department of the Govt. of Haryana has included it in the list of tourist spots of Faridabad. The picturesque “Dhyankaksh” is situated in the Vasundhara campus of the Satyug Darshan Trust, village Bhopani – Lalpur Road, Greater Faridabad.
The news has also been declared on the official website of the Govt. of Haryana i.e. https://haryanatourism.gov.in/. Besides this incredible “Dhyankaksh” other places that have been included in the list of tourist spots of Faridabad are Anandpur Dam, Aravali Golf Course, Gymkhana club, Mughal Bridge, Nahar Singh Cricket Stadium, Rajhans Convention Center, Rose Garden, and Surajkund. A haven of peace and serenity, “Dhyankaksh” sprawls over an area of 10 acres in the Vasundhara Campus of the Satyug Darshan Trust, Faridabad. Also known as “Sambhav-Samdrishti Ka School”, the architectural marvel adorned with white marble double domes was inaugurated on 26th January 2014. The internal roofs of the domes are all plated with gold, and the room is surrounded by alluring water bodies and lawns. Entry to the “Dhyankaksh” is free and facilities such as cafeteria, eating joints, parking are also available. Many renowned personalities viz. former president of India Late Dr. Abul Kalam Azad, ex-Governor of Hariyana, Shri Kaptan Singh Solanki, former diplomat Dr. Karn Singh and the likes have paid a visit to this treasure trove of tranquility. Anyone who is seeking peace and serenity can enter Dhyankaksh, regardless of religion, caste, creed, richness-poverty, gender or color, etc. Before entering into Dhyankaksh, one has to pass through the seven beautiful, larger than life gates, which are symbols of seven core Human Values, i.e. contentment endurance, truthfulness, righteousness, equality, selflessness, and benevolence. This “Dhyankaksh” has been adorned to mark the existence of Satyug and the pride of humanity. The disciples, here, are taught about the powers of spiritual knowledge and virtues to be able to stay aligned with the divinity in mind and let the body fulfill its due obligations in the mortal world. This helps them to preserve their spiritual stamina while struggling with the hardships of the physical arena and they can lead a life of a solemn person with faith in the divinity. People come from remote places to look at this beautiful reflection of unique architecture, and several cultural programs are organized throughout the year on the campus. Thousands of devotees visit the place on the occasion of Ram Navami. “Dhyankaksh” also hosts a “Humanity Olympiad” every year, which witnesses the participation of lakhs of students from more than 3000. The finale of the event is organized in the huge auditorium on the 7th of September, every year. The sprawling lawns of Dhyankaksh also play host to the Humanity Fest, which is celebrated every year at the abode of peace. Thousands of volunteers of ‘Humanity Development Group’ gather to celebrate humanity and young people from all walks of life attend this fest and pledge to become a good human being. The villagers from surrounding locations have also welcomed the decision of including “Meditation Room” in the list of tourist spots of Faridabad as the same would attract more tourists to the place and generate employment opportunities for the locals – thereby, uplifting their standard of living. The entry to the “Dhyankaksh” was of late limited for the visitors because of the regulations introduced in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, since the largest immunization drive in the history of the country is underway, “Dhyankaksh” will soon reopen for the visitors in full-swing as per he new directives of the State Govt.
Anandpur Bandh
The Anang Dam, situated about 2 kms. south-west of Surajkund is ascribed to Anangpal of Tomar dynasty of eleventh century AD. It is battered on the east and has steps on the west with angular flaked steps on the southern and northern extremities. The dam is 19.8 metres in height and the steps on the west rise to the east to a height over 27.43 metres. Its length is 101.2 metres. At the varying depths, from the top of the dam, there are seven drainage channels that run through the thickness of the dam and were designed to maintain the appropriate levels of the water in the dam. The steps of stairs are made of ashlar block stone laid in lime but in appearance they resemble the rubble core.
SurajKund
A water tank, resembling Roman amphitheatre, known as Surajkund, is believed to have been constructed by the Tomar king Surajpal, who is largely believed to be a bardic tradition king. It dates back to the pre-Islamic period, and presents a remarkable example of contemporary Hindu architecture. The shape of Surajkund resembles the rising sun. Its bed is about 130 meters in diameter. It is also believed, based on the discovery of some remnants on the site, a Sun temple once existed here.
Surajkund (literal meaning is ‘Lake of the Sun’) is an artificial Kund (‘Kund’ means lake or reservoir) built in the backdrop of the Aravalli hills with an amphitheatre-shaped embankment constructed in semicircular form. It is said to have been built by the Tomar king Suraj Pal of Tomar dynasty in the 10th century. Tomar was a sun worshipper and he had therefore built a Sun temple on its western bank. Surajkund is an ideal picnic spot, as it is situated only 8 kms. away from South Delhi. Substantiating this belief, there are ruins of a Sun Temple around the sunpool. The complex includes a beautifully done-up garden and a pool – Siddha Kund.
More importantly, Surajkund has earned fame for hosting the world acclaimed Surajkund International Crafts Mela organised here every year. Celebrated during 1st to 15th February, this is a fair that showcases the Indian handicrafts, handlooms and folk traditions. Set amidst a rich rural backdrop, the fair offers a lot of fun, frolic, entertainment and exclusive shopping opportunities. The fair comes alive with truly exotic, exquisite and exclusive ethnic items that range from delicately embroidered fabrics, hand woven furnishings, terracotta artefacts, jewellery, metal and cane-ware. Not to miss, a variety of mouth-watering Indian cuisines at the Food Court.
Moreover, the Chaupal and Natyashala pulsate with, folk dances and musical evenings that add riot of colours and euphoria of rhythm to the entire experience. Every year national and state awardee crafts persons from all the corners of India participate in the Fair. The year 2018 witnessed the 32th Surajkund International Crafts Mela.
The Mela is an annual event that highlights some of the finest handloom and handicraft traditions of the country. The first fortnight of February sees the rural India bask in the warmth of admiration at Surajkund Mela village that lies about 8 kms. from South Delhi. The Mela also celebrates the heritage, culture and art forms. A different theme State is chosen every year that puts its best foot forward.
Raja Nahar Singh Palace
This beautifully maintained palace of the legendary Raja Nahar Singh dates back to the 18th century AD. The earliest parts of Raja Nahar Singh’s palace were constructed by his ancestor Rao Balram, who came to power in 1739. This construction continued in parts till about 1850. Today, urban centres have come up around the palace. But, the beauty of the palace continues to charm the visitors. The palace is a heritage property and visitors can relax in the well-decorated rooms along with other facilities available here.