MARKETING COORDINATOR (APAC)
Suchita P.
PR & MARKETING COORDINATOR
James H.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE
Shraddha S.
CREATIVE CONTENT EDITOR
Utkarsh D.
CREATIVE DESIGN HEAD
Sankalp K.
Shweta K. GRAPHIC DESIGNER
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Narendra S.
DIGITAL CIRCULATION MANAGER
Amanda V.
ALook Ahead!
Theyear2024isapivotalmomentintime.Aswenavigateaworldbrimmingwithtechnological advancements,geopoliticalshifts,andever-evolvingconsumerdemands,visionarybusinessleadershipis morecrucialthanever.Thisspecialissueof “Most Visionary Business Leaders to Watch In 2024” shinesa spotlightonthosewhoarenotonlyshapingtoday’sbusinesslandscapebutalsoreimaginingthefuture.
TheseleadersarenotmerelysuccessfulCEOsorindustrytitans.Theyaretheoneswhopossessthe foresighttoanticipatetrends,thecouragetodisruptthestatusquo,andtheempathytounderstandtheneeds ofachangingworld.Theyarethearchitectsofamoresustainable,equitable,andtechnologically-driven future.
Withinthesepages,you’llencounteradiversearrayofindividuals,eachwiththeirownuniquevision. Therearethosewhoareharnessingthepowerofartificialintelligencetorevolutionizeindustries,while othersarepioneeringnewmodelsofsocialresponsibility.Someareleadingthechargetowardsagreener tomorrow,whileothersarefosteringamoreinclusiveandcollaborativebusinessenvironment.
Theseleadersrepresentabeaconofhopeinanincreasinglycomplexworld.Theyinspireustopushthe boundariesofwhat’spossibleandtochallengeconventionalthinking.Bystudyingtheirapproachesand learningfromtheirsuccesses,wecanallplayaroleinshapingabrighterfuture.
Onthecoverofthisissue,wehavefeatured ,theSeniorVicePresidentandRegionalHead ParajVidyarthi ofManufacturing,Hi-Tech,andBFSIatTechMahindra.RecognizedasoneoftheMostVisionaryBusiness LeaderstoWatch,Parajhasdemonstratedanexceptionalabilitytoleadthroughchangeanddeliver innovativesolutionsthatredefineindustrystandards.Hisstrategicinitiativesindigitaltransformationand hisdedicationtoleveragingIndustry4.0technologieshavedistinguishedhimasapioneerinhisfield.
Byrecognizingtheseleadersandunderstandingtheirvisions,wecanallgainvaluableinsightsintothe trendsthatwillshapetheworldoftomorrow.Letthisissueserveasaspringboardforyourowninnovation andasourceofinspirationaswecollectivelyforgeapathtowardsamoreprosperousandsustainablefuture.
Utkarsh D.
Onthecoverofthisissue,wehavefeaturedParajVidyarthi, theSeniorVicePresidentandRegionalHeadof Manufacturing,Hi-Tech,andBFSIatTechMahindra. RecognizedasoneoftheMostVisionaryBusinessLeadersto Watch,Parajhasdemonstratedanexceptionalabilitytolead throughchangeanddeliverinnovativesolutionsthatredefine industrystandards.Hisstrategicinitiativesindigital transformationandhisdedicationtoleveragingIndustry4.0 technologieshavedistinguishedhimasapioneerinhisfield, drivingsubstantialgrowthandsettingnewbenchmarksin everysectorhetouches.
ParajVidyarthihasheldsignificantleadershippositionsintoptierITcompanies,demonstratinghiscapabilitytoguideand innovateindynamicenvironments.Hisjourneyhasbeen markedbystrategicvisionandaforward-thinkingapproach, enablinghimtoexcelindiverseroles.
TransitioningfromestablishedITroles,Parajembarkedona challengingjourneyintotheJapanesestartuplandscape. Understandingthecomplexitiesandculturalnuancesofthe localmarket,wherenewentrantsoftenfacechallengesas GAIJIN(outsiders),hesuccessfullybroughtseveral companiestoJapan.NotableamongtheseareVVDN Technologiesin2019andPathPartnerin2021,bothofwhich hehelpedestablishfromthegroundup.
UnderParaj’sleadership,VVDNTechnologieshasmade significantinroadsintoJapan’sIoT,automotive,and5G markets,partneringwithmajorplayerslikeRakutenand appliancemanufacturers.PathPartner,ontheotherhand,has thrivedintheIoT,semiconductor,andautomotivesectors, focusingonADAS,autonomoussystems,andin-cabin technologies.Theirclienteleincludestop-tiercompaniessuch asDenso,Aisin,Macnica,andRenesas.
10 Paraj Vidyarthi 20
Budapest: Where Every Corner Holds a Story, Every Street an Adventure
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Top 10 Biggest Sporting Events In The World
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Hollister: From California Vibes to All-inclusive Global Fashion Brand
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5 Oldest Construction in the World: Exploring the Glory that We Lost with Time
PARAJ VIDYARTHI Spearheading Visionary Leadership and Resilience in the Business Arena Tech Mahindra Senior Vice President, Regional head Business leaders who excel in the areas of innovation, foresight, and strategic insight often propel their organizations to the forefront of market trends and technological advancements. These leaders are not merely administrators; they are visionaries who understand the nuances of their industries, anticipate shifts in consumer demands, and harness the potential of emerging technologies to drive growth and transformation.
Among such leaders is Paraj Vidyarthi, the Senior Vice President and Regional Head of Manufacturing, Hi-Tech, and BFSI at Tech Mahindra. Recognized as one of the Most Visionary Business Leaders to Watch, Paraj has demonstrated an exceptional ability to lead through change and deliver innovative solutions that redene industry standards. His strategic initiatives in digital transformation and his dedication to leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies have distinguished him as a pioneer in his eld, driving substantial growth and setting new benchmarks in every sector he touches.
NavigatingtheJapaneseMarketandLeadingLarge Deals LeadershipinTopITCompanies ParajVidyarthihasheldsignificantleadershippositions intop-tierITcompanies,demonstratinghiscapabilityto guideandinnovateindynamicenvironments.His journeyhasbeenmarkedbystrategicvisionanda forward-thinkingapproach,enablinghimtoexcelin diverseroles.
BreakingintotheJapaneseStartupLandscape TransitioningfromestablishedITroles,Parajembarked onachallengingjourneyintotheJapanesestartup landscape.Understandingthecomplexitiesandcultural nuancesofthelocalmarket,wherenewentrantsoften facechallengesasGAIJIN(outsiders),hesuccessfully broughtseveralcompaniestoJapan.Notableamong theseareVVDNTechnologiesin2019andPathPartnerin 2021,bothofwhichhehelpedestablishfromtheground up.
SuccessStories:VVDNTechnologiesandPathPartner UnderParaj’sleadership,VVDNTechnologieshasmade significantinroadsintoJapan’sIoT,automotive,and5G markets,partneringwithmajorplayerslikeRakutenand appliancemanufacturers.PathPartner,ontheotherhand, hasthrivedintheIoT,semiconductor,andautomotive sectors,focusingonADAS,autonomoussystems,andincabintechnologies.Theirclienteleincludestop-tier companiessuchasDenso,Aisin,Macnica,andRenesas.
RecognitionandVision ParajVidyarthiisrecognizedasoneoftheMost VisionaryBusinessLeaderstoWatch.AstheSeniorVice PresidentandRegionalHeadofManufacturing,Hi-Tech, andBFSIatTechMahindra,hehasshownexceptional abilitytoleadthroughchangeanddeliverinnovative solutionsthatredefineindustrystandards.
TheLargeDealMaker Renownedforhisexpertiseinsecuringlargeand strategicdeals,ParajiscelebratedasaLargeDealMaker. HisrecentaccomplishmentatTechMahindraincludes securingagloballandmarkdealworth$150million—a SAPglobalrolloutdealwithaJapaneseautomotive conglomerate.Thisachievementhasgenerated significantbuzzwithintheITcommunityworldwide.
ParajVidyarthi’sjourneyisatestamenttohisleadership, strategicvision,andabilitytonavigatecomplexmarkets.From breakingintotheJapanesestartupscenetosecuring monumentaldeals,Parajcontinuestomakesignificant contributionstotheITindustry,establishinghimselfasa formidableleaderandinnovator
ParajwasheadingEngineeringcompaniesasRegionalCountry headforAPACatPathpartnerandactedasadvisortovarious IndianITcompanies.HewasofferedaStrategicpositionasa SVP&RegionalHeadbytheAPACandJapanbusinessleaders whilehewasactingasanAdvisorforthisdealwithTech MahindraandjoinedthecompanyfromAugust2023tolead companyintoaLandslidewinagainst14TopNotchGiants likeAccenture,Deloitte,PWC,HCL,Wipro,TCS,…This wasacommendablewinforanIndianITcompanyagainst theWesternITGiants.
BuildingExpertise&DrivingGrowth Parajbrings23yearsofexpertiseinAPACandglobalmarkets, characterizedbyhisprofoundknowledgeandnative-level fluencyinJapanese.AsaseasonedrevenueandP&Lowner,he hascatalyzedsubstantialgrowthandtransformationacross diverseindustries,includingautomotive,manufacturing, semiconductors,andBFSI,underscoringhismulti-faceted leadershipcapabilities.Hisextensivebackgroundincludes buildingandleadinglocalteams,effectivelyplanningand executingsalesstrategiesforlargeaccounts,managingmega accounts,andfosteringkeyaccountrelationships.
Parajhasheldseniormanagementrolesandledlocaland regionalteamsfortop-tiertechnologycompaniessuchasHCL, Wipro,Polaris,andNTTData.Hespecializesinvarious industries,frommanufacturingandautomotiveto telecommunications,retail,banking,financialproductsand services,andhealthcare.Histechnologicalexpertisespans enterpriseITstreams—includingapplication,consulting,and managedservices—andengineeringstreamslike semiconductors,embeddedsystems,andelectronics.Moreover, Parajhasestablishedarobustecosystemofregionalandglobal partnersinGTMareas,product,anddeliveryalliancesandhas builttop-tierrelationshipsindiplomaticcircles,advisingthe IndianEmbassy,IITAJ,INBCC,andotherinfluentialentities.
HebeganhiscareerintheautomotivesectoratYamahaMotors, wherehisfrequenttravelstoJapanenrichedhisunderstanding ofJapanesemanagementmethodologiessuchasTPM,TQC, QCCircle,Poka-Yoke,Kaizen,andmore.Hisearlycareer achievementsincludesignificantprojectslikeAssemblySPR improvement,TPMimplementation,thePhilippinesTaxi project,andthesuccessfuldevelopmentoftheCrux-Rmodel.
TransitioningtotheITindustry,hejoinedAithent TechnologiesbeforemovingtoHCLTechnologies,where hereportedtoindustryleaderssuchasAnilGupta,MD& CEOoftheHCL-NECJointVenture.Thismentorship furtherbroadenedhisindustryanddomainexpertise, particularlyinembeddedsystems,engineering,and softwareproductsandservices,propellinghisjourneyasa businessleader.
Education&Certifications ParajholdsaMasterofBusinessAdministrationinSales &MarketingManagementfromAmityBusinessSchool, Tokyo,andaBachelorofCommercefromtheUniversity ofDelhi.Hisprofessionaldevelopmentiscomplemented bycertificationsinC#.NET,Oracle(OCA),DOEACC Level‘O’,andprogramminginC&C++.Additionally,he haspursuedaneducationincomputeranimationand graphicsfromtheAmericanInstituteofTechnologyand holdsanAdvancedDiplomainJapanesefromDelhi UniversityalongwithotherJapaneselanguage certifications.Hisdiverseeducationalbackgroundis furtherenrichedbycertificationsinexportmanagement anddocumentation,aswellasnaturopathyandyoga, showcasinghiscommitmenttocontinuouslearningand personalgrowth.
To succeed, leaders should constantly learn, empower, and motivate their teams and maintain strong ethics and integrity,” “ “ - Paraj Vidyarthi. InnovatingFutures Establishedover35yearsago,TechMahindraisaheritage brandknownforpioneeringsystems,processes,and solutionsforenterpriseclientsworldwide.Atthenexusof transformativechanges,thecompanyintroduces NXT.NOW™,signalingacommitmenttoshapingthe futureofindustries.TechMahindra’ssustainedsuccessis rootedinastrategicapproachencompassingthreekey pillars:
Run: Operate systems and processes that align with current and prospective business objectives.
Change: Adapt systems and processes to embrace evolutionary changes.
Grow: Enhance client business value by offering distinctive solutions in a competitive market.
Thecompanypledgestodevelopambitiousframeworks forpartnersaimingtobecomemarketleaders,providing comprehensivestrategiesandadvisoryservices.The companyaddressesemergingtechnological trends—including5G,cloudcomputing,AI,blockchain, andcybersecurity—placingitselfattheforefrontofthe nextwaveofinnovations.
AdvancedOfferings TechMahindraalignsitsserviceofferingswithcustomers’ evolvingneedsacrossvarioussectors.Theirextensive portfolioincludesInfrastructureandCloudServices, ExperienceDesignServices,andBusinessProcess Services,whichstreamlineandenhanceITarchitecture, userexperiences,andprocessefficiencies.Additional servicescoverNetworkServicesandTestingServices, ensuringreliablenetworkinfrastructureandsoftware performance.
Further,TechMahindraoffersIntegratedEngineering Solutions,PerformanceEngineering,andspecializedERP Solutions,includingSAPandOracle,preparingbusinesses forthefuturewithcutting-edgetechnology Their advancedcapabilitiesextendtoDataAnalytics,Artificial Intelligence,CyberSecurity,andDigitalSupplyChain solutions.TheseservicesarecomplementedbyCustomer Experience,IntelligentAutomation,andSustainability initiatives,fortifyingtheircommitmenttodriving innovationandexcellence.
Progressive Leadership Journey Paraj’scareertrajectoryillustratesaremarkableascent throughthetechnologysectorranks,particularlywithin theAsia-Pacificregion.Here’sanoverviewofhiskey milestones:
Ÿ 2000-2005:
Engineering&SalesFoundations AtEscortsYamahaLtdinIndia,Parajinitiatedhiscareer inproductionengineering,wherehemanagedteamsand spearheadednewmodeldevelopments.Hetransitionedto HCLTechnologiesinJapan,sharpeninghisbusiness development,sales,andaccountmanagementskills,and successfullysecuredastrategicalliancewithIBM.
Ÿ 2005-2014:BFSI&EmbeddedTechnology Specialization
ContinuingatHCLTechnologiesinJapanasaSenior Coordinator,Parajenhancedhisexpertiseinsales support,pre-salesactivities,andclientrelationship management.AtSRMTechnologies,alsoinJapan,he shiftedfocustomanagingautomotiveembeddedOffshore DevelopmentCenters(ODCs),drivinggrowthwithinkey accounts.AsServicesHead/AccountDirectoratPolaris Consulting&ServicesLtd,hesignificantlyexpandedhis BFSIclientbase.
Ÿ 2014-2019:APACGrowthLeadership
AsaPolarisEnterpriseSolutionsLimitedleader,Paraj directedsalesefforts,boostingrevenuegrowthacross bothBFSIandnon-BFSIsectors.AtWiproLimited, encompassingJapanandAPAC,hebroadenedtheclient baseintheautomotiveandmanufacturingindustries throughnewclientacquisitionsandexpandingexisting accounts.MovingtoNTTDataGlobalTechnology ServicesandNTTDataIntellilinkCorporationinJapan, heundertookleadershiprolesoverseeingMNCsalesand propelledgrowthacrossdiverseindustriesinAPAC, Europe,andtheUS.
Ÿ 2019-Present:RegionalLeadership
JoiningVVDNTechnologiesasCountrySalesManager, Parajestablishedlocalentitiesandexpandedsalesacross theAPACregion.AtPathPartnerTechnology,henow servesastheRegionalCountryHead,leadingthe company’sexpansioninJapanandAPAC.Inhiscurrent roleasSVP,RegionalHeadofManufacturing,Hi-Tech, BFSIatTechMahindra,Parajapplieshisvastexperience tosteertheregionalteamstowardcontinuedgrowth.
LeadershipExcellence Parajembodiesvisionaryleadership,consistentlydriving innovativedealsandspearheadinggroundbreaking initiativesthroughouthisdistinguishedcareer.Hisstrategic approachblendsastutebusinessdevelopmentwithsales tactics,establishingarobustmarketpresenceand generatingsubstantialrevenuestreams.Notablyadaptable, Parajexcelsacrossdiverseenvironmentsandindustries, showcasingresilienceandaversatileskillset.Hebuilds solidrelationshipswithclients,partners,andstakeholders, fosteringcollaborationformutualsuccess.Paraj’s innovativethinkingandproblem-solvingabilitiesdrive successfuldigitaltransformationprojectsandadvance Industry4.0initiatives.
Furthermore,Paraj’sleadershipethosprioritizessettingan example,customersatisfaction,andempoweringteam members.Thispeople-centricapproachwasdemonstrated duringthe2010JapanTripleDisaster,wherehe courageouslyremainedbehindtoevacuate200individuals, earningrecognitionforhisselflessness.Committedto qualityandcustomer-centricity,hebelievesincritical thinking,problem-solving,anddeliveringinnovative solutions.Hemotivatesandguideshisteam,entrusting themwithresponsibilitiesforcollectivesuccess.
DistinguishedAchievements Parajhasbeenrecognizedthroughouthisprofessional careerwithnumerousawardsandhonorsthatreflecthis commitmenttoexcellence.IntheITindustry,hereceived theSPOTExcellenceAwardinMay2011forhis exceptionalleadershipanddedicationduringtheturbulent timesfollowingthenaturaldisastersinJapaninMarch 2011.Hisactionsnotonlywentbeyondthecallofdutybut alsoensuredthesafetyofhisassociatesduringthe earthquake,tsunami,andnucleardisruption.
Later,inNovember2011,Parajwashonoredwiththe MERLIONAwardforhisstrategicexpansionofseveralkey BFSIandJapaneseMNCaccountsacrosstheAPACregion. InJanuary2012,hereceivedtheprestigiousKONARK AwardfromPolaris,recognizingaselectfeweachyearfor world-classperformance,discipline,andleadership.His exceptionalsalesachievementscontinuedtobe acknowledgedwhenhewasnamedBESTSALES PERSONOFTHEYEARinMarch2012forachieving 115%oftheannualsalestargetandsecuringsignificant dealswithintop-levelstrategicaccounts.InMay2014,he wasawardedtheLONGSERVICEAwardaftercompleting fiveyearsatVirtusa-Polaris.
ParajearnedtheRegionalQualityAward intheautomotiveindustryforhis leadershipinsuccessfullydevelopingand launchingtheYamahaCrux-Rbike.This includedensuringthemodel’sclearance formassproductionfromtheAutomotive ResearchAssociationofIndia(ARAI)and managingasmoothlaunchbyaddressing last-minutetechnicalissues.Additionally, hisleadershipintrainingprogramsin Japanonproductionengineeringandnew modeldevelopmenthasbeenhighly lauded.Parajalsoplayedakeyroleinthe TPMimplementationsforthemachine shopandsignificantlyimprovedthe assemblySPR,elevatingitfrom33%to 70%,therebyenhancingoverallquality.
C O V E R S T O R Y
Paraj with NTT Data Leaders
Paraj with NTT Data colleagues InspirationalFamilyLegacy Paraj’sextraordinarycareerisdeeplyrootedinafamilylegacyofintegrityandservice. Hisgrandfather,ParameshwarDayalVidyarthi,wasanotableparticipantinIndia’s freedomstrugglealongsideMahatmaGandhi.Thevaluesofsacrificeandleadership exemplifiedbyhisgrandfatherprofoundlyshapedParaj’svaluesandprinciples.
Hisfather,U.Vidyarthi,wasnotonlyanaward-winningengineerandsportsmanbutalsoa steadfastopponentofcorruption,facingnumerousthreatsforstandingagainstthemafia andacorruptsystem.Paraj’smother,awomanofstrongprinciples,providedsupport duringthesechallengingtimes,embodyingdedicationandresilience.
Parajinheritedqualitiessuchasintegrity,innovation,visionaryleadership,andselflessness fromthesefamilyinfluences.Thesetraitshavebeenfundamentaltohisimpressivecareer trajectory.Parajalsocreditshiswife,PuneetaSinghVidyarthi,anacademictopperanda pillarofsupport,forplayingacrucialroleinhispersonalandprofessionallife.Her accomplishmentsincludesupportingherbrothers’educationinJapan,purchasingahouse forherparents,andsteadfastlysupportingherfamily
NurturingTalentandOwnership Parajsignificantlyemphasizescontinuouslearninganddevelopmentwithintheeverevolvingbusinesslandscape.Thiscommitmentextendstohisapproachtoteam management.Heactivelycollaborateswithhisteamtoidentifytheirstrengthsandareas forimprovement,fosteringacultureofcontinuousgrowth.Heempowersemployeesto enhancetheirskillsetsthroughtargetedtraininginitiativesandremainaheadofindustry trends.
Moreover,Parajadvocatesforpromotingownershipamongteammembers.Recognizing theimportanceofaccountability,heentrustsindividualswithownershipoftheirrespective
domains,fosteringasenseofresponsibilityanddrivingteamproductivity.Thisapproachempowersindividualsandcontributes totheoverallsuccessoftheteamandtheorganization.
PersonalPreferences
Apartfromwork,Parajenjoysreading,chess,tabletennis,andplayingguitar.Hisfavoritebooksinclude“Fountainhead,” “GoodtoGreat,”and“BuilttoLast.”HepreferstravelingtoEuropeandAustraliaandrelishesIndianandJapanesecuisines. ThesehobbiesandpreferencesofferabalancedperspectivetoParaj’slifealongsidehisprofessionalcommitments.
GuidingPerspective
Parajoffersacompellingperspectiveforaspiringleaders.Heseestheregionasahotbedofinnovation,withindustrieslike automotive,IoT,andsemiconductorsdrivingsignificantgrowth,particularlyontheIndia-Japanaxis.Parajemphasizesdeep divingintothelocalcontexttosucceedintheAsianmarket.“Goingglobalrequiresgoinglocal,”hesays,urgingleadersto immersethemselvesinthelanguageandculturalnuancesofthemarket.
Paraj with NTT Data colleagues
C O V E R S T O
Budap Budap udapest udapest Where EVERYCORNER Holds a Story, EVERY STREET an ADVENTURE Did you know Budapest is home to one of the world’s oldest metro systems? After London, Budapest Metro is the second oldest underground railway in the world. It is widely known for its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. But this is not all about it. From the majestic Hungarian parliament building to the lively ruin bars, there’s an endless array of experiences to be discovered in this city.
Join us on a journey where we will learn about the rich and fascinating history of the city, its cultural heritage, some of its interesting facts, and a brief guide on how to explore the city.
Climate & Best Time To Visit Budapest experiences a humid continental climate. Summers are hot, often reaching high temperatures, while winters are cold and dry, though they tend to be relatively short.
In winter, the average temperature is between 34°F - 40°F, but it can get low as -14°F.
In summer, the average temperature is 69°F, but the city suffers from several heat waves with highs of over 86°F.
ThebesttimetovisitthecityisMayorSeptember.Youwillbeabletowalkaroundinshort sleevesatthattimeandneedwarmjacketsatnight..
Rich and Fascinating History TheearliestevidenceofhabitationinBudapestdatesbacktotheStoneAge.Inthelate9thcentury,Hungarians arrivedandestablishedBudaandPest,withBudabecomingtheroyalresidenceinthe13thcentury
In1541,theOttomanEmpiretookoverBudaandrulednearlyfor150years.In1686,Habsburg,apowerful EuropeanDynastyborecontroloverBuda.Itcametolifein1873whenthethreehistoricallyrichtownsofBuda, Óbuda,andPestcombinedtoformthecityofBudapest.
WorldWarIIcausedheavydestruction,resultinginextensivedamageandlossoflife.Manybuildings,including thebridgesovertheDanubeRiver,weredestroyed. Afterthewar,thecitywasunderthecontroloftheSoviets untiltheendofcommunismin1989.ThecitybecamepartoftheEasternBloc,underthegroupofcommunist statesunderSovietdominance.
The1956HungarianRevolutionwasakeymomentofresistanceagainstthecommunistregime.InOctober 1956,theSoviet-imposedpoliciesandthecommunistgovernmentbeganinBudapest.TheHungarianRevolution sawmassprotests,armedresistance,andatemporaryoverthrowofthegovernment.Therevolutionledto thousandsofdeathsandremainsasignificantsymbolofthestruggleforfreedomandresistanceagainst oppressioninHungarianhistory
Budapest,thecapitalofHungary,ispopular amongtouristsandvisitors.In2019,itwas awardedasoneofthefinestdestinationsin Europe.Thecityoffersmultipleculturaland wonderfulviewstovisitors.Whicheverside youchoose,onethingisforsure:afantastic panoramaopensbeforeyoureyesfromthe banksoftheDanube.Itwasthefirsttobe listedintheWorldHeritageSite,followed bytheBudaCastleDistrictandthehistoric surroundingsofAndrássyAvenue.
OnbothsidesoftheDanubeRiver,there arefantasticmasterpiecesofarchitecture, suchastheparliament,theheadquartersof theHungarianAcademy,theGresham Palace,andtheVigadobuildinginthePest.
Anothermasterpiece,AndrássyAvenuewas addedtotheUNESCOWorldHeritageList duetoitsstunningbuildingsalongthe roadside.Theseinclude-theOperaHouse, theNeo-RenaissanceAcademyofMusic, theArtNouveauFashionHall,Heroes’ Square,theMuseumofFineArts,andthe MilleniumMonument.
MUST-SEE SIGHTS 8 DanubePromenade:ItisascenicwalkwayalongthebanksoftheDanube River,offeringbreathtakingviewsofthecity'siconiclandmarks.Visitorscan strollalongtheriver,enjoyingviewsoftheParliamentBuilding,BudaCastle, andtheChainBridge,especiallyatthetimeofsunset.
DohanyStreetSynagogue:ItisthelargestsynagogueinEuropethatservesas asymbolofBudapest’sJewishHistory.Peopleallaroundvisitheretoseeits MoorishRevivalarchitecture,stunninginteriors,andmovingHolocaust memorial.
BudaCastle:ItstandsasamajesticsymboloftheroyalhistoryofBudapest’s past,offeringpanoramicviewsofthecityandhousingmuseums.
GellertBaths:ItisthemostfamousArtNouveauthermalbathinBudapest, HungaryaswellasinEurope.Thereare10poolsofvarioussizesand temperaturesopeneverydayfrom9amto7pm.Visitingthebathisindeeda beautifulandhistoricalexperienceforvisitors.
MargaretIslands:ItislocatedinthemiddleoftheDanube River,andfeatureslushgardens,joggingpaths,recreational facilities,andhistoricallandmarkssuchastheruinsofa medievalmonasteryandamusicalfountain.
HungarianParliamentBuilding:Itisthelargestbuildingin HungarydesignedintheGothicRevivalstylethathousesthe nationalassembly.
St.Stephen’sBasilica:ItisthemostsacredCatholicChurch inHungary Visitorscanenjoythestunningviewsofthecity fromthetopoftheBasilica.
BudaCastleCaves:TheyarethenetworkofnaturalandmanmadecavesbeneathBudaCastle.Inhistory,theywereusedfor multiplepurposeslike;storagespaces,shelters,andasa hospitalduringWorldWarII.
Interesting Facts About Budapest You Didn’t Know It hosts the Sziget Festival, one of Europe’s largest music and cultural events, attracting over 500,000 attendees annually.
The Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden, founded in 1866, is one of the oldest zoos in the world.
Margaret Bridge is the second-oldest in the city, connecting Buda and Pest.
The Dohány Street Synagogue in the city is the largest synagogue in Europe. It can seat 3,000 people and was built in 1854 and completed in 1859.
Budapest’s Museum of Fine Arts houses an extensive collection spanning from Ancient Egypt to modern masters.
The ofcial currency of Budapest is the Hungarian Forint(Ft, HUF), sometimes mistakenly called the Florin. Hungary has been planning to replace the Forint with the euro since 2003, but still, there is no target date to adopt the euro.
Food to Try in Budapest ItoffersadelightfulfusionoftraditionalHungariancuisinesandcontemporarydiningexperiencesthatreflectitsvibrant historyandculturaldiversity.Here,wearesharingsomeofthefoodsyoushouldnevermiss;
LÁNGOS:
ItisBudapest’stastieststreetfoodsnack.Itis madeusingflour,yeast,water,andsalt.
LECSÓ:
ItisaclassicHungariancomfortfood consistingoftomatoes,sweetpeppers,onions, andpaprika.
FŐZELÉK:
ItisoneofBudapest’smostfillingvegetarian dishesandfallssomewherebetweenasoup andastew.
PÖRKÖLT:
ItisaHungarian-stylemeatandonionstew oftenservedwithpotatoesorpasta.
RAKOTT KRUMPLI:
Itisadishoflayeredpotatoes,bakedwith sourcreamandhard-boiledegg.
Tips For Travelers Prices:
Pricesandcostsinthecityarerelativelyinexpensive,especiallywhencomparedtootherEuropeancapitalcities.Youcanhavea goodmealfor€10oreatduringaboatridefor€69.
PublicTransports:
Youcanvisitthecityonfoot,butifyouprefernottowalk,publictransportisavailable-Metro,Tram,Bus,Trolleybus, Funicular,SuburbanTrains,andTaxis.
CONCLUSION
Budapest offers visitors an unforgettable experience, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cuisines. Whether exploring the Danube Promenade, Gellert Baths, or tasting Hungarian avors, Budapest captivates you with beauty and charm. Its welcoming atmosphere and cultural richness invite you to create long-lasting memories with its beauty.
SPORTING Top Biggest10 TING EVENTS In The World Imaginesittinginastadiumandwatchingyourfavoritesportslive.Thethrill,theadrenalinerushwhenyoucheer foryourfavoriteplayer Theemotionyoufeelthroughouttheeventissurreal.Andwhenit'soneofthebiggest sportingeventsintheworld,thefeelingsareoverwhelming, it'slikeadreamcometrueforasportsfan.
Ineveryfouryears,footballteamsfromover200countriescompeteforthehonorofhoistingtheFIFAworldcup trophy TheFIFAWorldCupwasfoundedin1930andisoneoftherenownedsportingevents.Itisaninternational associationfootballcompetitionbetweentheseniormen'snationalteamsofthemembersoftheFédération InternationaledeFootballAssociation(FIFA),thesport'sglobalgoverningbody.TheFIFAWorldCupisthemost prestigioustournamentandmostlyviewedeventintheworld.Seventeencountrieshavehostedtheevent,with Qatarbeingthemostrecentin2022.Thisisoneofthebiggestsportingeventsintheworld.
1.FIFAWorldCup
2.OlympicGames TheOlympicGamesisahugesportseventthathappensevery fouryears.Itbringspeopletogetherandcelebrateshowstrong anddeterminedhumanscanbe.Overthousandsofathletes competeinvariousformsofsportscompetitions.Itispopular notjustforitsgrandeurstatusbutalsoforitsiconicfive-ring symbol.
ThecreationoftheOlympicgameswasinspiredbythe ancientOlympicGames,heldinOlympia,Greecefromthe 8thcenturyBCtothe4thcenturyAD.BaronPierrede CoubertinfoundedtheInternationalOlympicCommittee (IOC)in1894,leadingtothefirstmodernGamesinAthensin 1896.Awholelotoftalentedfolksparticipatefromoverthe world,soitisregardedasoneofthebiggestsportingeventsin theworld.
3.SuperBowl TheSuperBowlistheannualleaguechampionshipgameof theNationalFootballLeague(NFL)oftheUnitedStates.It hasservedasthefinalgameofeveryNFLseasonsince1966, replacingtheNFLChampionshipGame.Itisasignificant eventintheUnitedStates,attractingmillionsofviewers.The gameishostedbyadifferentcityeachyear,andithasbecome anationalholidayofsorts,withmanypeoplehostingSuper Bowlpartiesorwatchingthegameatbarsandrestaurants.
ThefirstSuperBowlwasplayedonJanuary15,1967, betweentheAFL(KansasCityChiefs)andtheNFLchampion (GreenBayPackers).Thegamewasoriginallycalledthe AFL-NFLWorldChampionshipGame.Later,theterm“Super Bowl”wasproposedtorefertothechampionshipgame.Since then,theSuperBowlhasbecomeoneofthemost recognizableAmericantraditions.EachSuperBowlgamehas itsownMVP(MostValuablePlayer),whoistypicallya standoutperformerinthegame.FortheUnitedStates,itis oneofthebiggestsportingeventsintheworld.
4.WimbledonChampionships Itistheoldesttennistournamentintheworldandisregarded asthemostprestigiousbymanypeople. Ithasbeenheldat theAllEnglandLawnTennisandCroquetClubin Wimbledon,London,since1877andisplayedonoutdoor grasscourts,withretractableroofsoverthetwomaincourts since2019.
Itisoneofthefourgrandslamtournamentsandisthe onlymajorthatisplayedongrass,whichisthe traditionaltennisplayingsurface.Traditionally,it takesplaceovertwoweeksinlateJuneandearlyJuly ThetraditionsofWimbledonincludeastrictall-white dresscodeforcompetitorsandroyalpatronage. Strawberriesandcreamaretraditionallyconsumedat thetournament.
5.TourdeFrance Itisanannualmen'smultiple-stagebicycleraceand isthemostprestigiousandchallenging.Itisoneof thethreemajorracesinprofessionalcycling,along withtheGirod'ItaliaandtheVueltaaEspaña.It attractsthebestridersfromaroundtheworldandis heldannuallyforthreeweeksinJuly Therace typicallyincludes20professionalteams,each consistingof9riders.Thetotaldistancecoveredin theTourdeFranceisaround3,600km(2,235miles), mainlyinFrance,withoccasionalvisitstoother countriessuchasBelgium,Italy,Germany,andSpain.
Thiseventisknownforitschallengingterrain,which includesbothtime-trialracingandracingstages.Itis consideredoneofthesupremetestsofathletic enduranceandiswatchedbyhugecrowdsalongthe roadside.Theraceisalsotelevisedworldwide,further highlightingitsglobalpopularity TheTourdeFrance in2024willhaveadifferentfinaleinNiceinsteadof ParisduetotheSummerOlympicsinParis.Therace willstartinFlorence,Italy,andfeaturechallenging terrainsintheAlps,withamountain-stageconclusion attheColdelaCouillole.Thisisamuchrecognized raceglobally,andisoneofthebiggestsportingevents intheworld.
6.CricketWorldCup ThefirstCricketWorldCupwasheldin1975in Englandandconsistedofaseriesofone-daymatches with60oversperside.Sincethen,thetournamenthas evolved,withchangesinformatandrules.In1987, thenumberofoverspersidewasreducedto50.Itis aninternationalcricketchampionshipheldeveryfour yearsandisconsideredthepremiercontestinone-day cricket.Thetournamentfeaturesteamsfromaround theworldcompetingforthetitle.
TheCricketWorldCuphasseenmanyamazing moments.SunilValsonofIndiaistheonlyplayerto havewonaWorldCupwithoutplayingan internationalmatch.ChetanSharmaisknownasthe “WorldCuphat-trickman”forbeingthefirstperson tocleanbowlthreebatsmeninaWorldCupmatch.
TheoldestcricketertoplayinaCricketWorldCup wasNolanClarkefromtheNetherlands,who participatedinthe1996tournamentattheageof47 yearsand257days.KeplerWesselsisthefirstplayer torepresenttwocountriesinODIhistory.Heplayed forAustraliafrom1982to1985andlaterrepresented SouthAfricain1991.Allthesefamousfiguresmakeit thebiggestsportingeventsintheworld.
7.RugbyWorldCup TheRugbyWorldCupisaninternationalrugbyunion tournamentheldeveryfouryears.Itisahigh-level eventinthesportofrugbyandfeaturesteamsfrom aroundtheworldcompetingfortheprestigiousWebb EllisCup.ThefirstRugbyWorldCupwasheldin 1987inAustraliaandNewZealand.Sincethen,the tournamenthasgrowninpopularityandsignificance, attractingaglobalaudienceandshowcasingthebest talentinthesport.
Themostrecenteditionofthetournamentwasheldin Japanin2019,markingthefirsttimeitwashostedin Asia.TheRugbyWorldCupisorganizedbyWorld Rugby,theglobalgoverningbodyforthesport.The tournamentfollowsaformatwhereteamscompetein aseriesofmatches,includingpoolstages,knockout rounds,andultimatelyculminatinginafinalto determinetheworldchampion.Knownasaviolent sport,itisalsooneofthebiggestsportingeventsin theworld.
8.Formula1GrandPrix Formula1GrandPrixisthepremierinternational championshipforsingle-seaterautoracing.Itis consideredtheverybestofmotorsportandfeatures theworld'sbestdriverscompetinginhighperformancecars.Thechampionshipisorganizedby theInternationalAutomobileFederation(FIA)and consistsofaseriesofracesheldaroundtheworld.
TheFormula1WorldChampionshipbeganin1950andhas sincebecomeoneofthemostprestigiousandwidelyfollowed sportingeventsglobally Thechampionshipconsistsofaseries ofracescalledtheGrandPrix,whichtakeplaceonvarious circuits,includingpurpose-builttracks,streetcircuits,and historicvenues.TheformatofaGrandPrixweekendtypically includespracticesessions,qualifyingsessions,andtherace itself.
9.NBAFinals TheNBAFinalsisthechampionshipseriesoftheNational BasketballAssociation(NBA),wherethebestteamsfromthe EasternConferenceandWesternConferencecompeteforthe NBAtitle.Theseriesisplayedunderabest-of-sevenplayoff format,withtheteamwinningfourgamesfirstbeingcrowned thechampion.
Itstartedin1950withthemergeroftheBasketballAssociation ofAmerica(BAA)andtheNationalBasketballLeague(NBL). Theserieshasundergonenamechangesovertheyears, includingtheNBAWorldChampionshipSeriesandthe Showdown,beforesettlingontheNBAFinalsin1986.
10.TheMastersGolfTournament TheMastersTournament,commonlyreferredtoasTheMasters, isoneofthefourmajorchampionshipsinprofessionalgolf.Itis heldannuallyinAugusta,Georgia,attheAugustaNationalGolf Club.Thetournamentisthefirstmajorchampionshipofthe yearandisscheduledforthefirstfullweekofApril.The MastersTournamenthasarichhistorydatingbacktoits inceptionin1934.BobbyJones,alegendarygolfer,andClifford Roberts,aninvestmentbanker,foundedthetournamentwiththe visionofcreatingachallengingcoursethatwouldshowcasethe naturalbeautyofthearea.TheAugustaNationalGolfClubwas designedbyJonesandAlisterMacKenzieandopenedin1932.
Thetournamentfollowsastrokeplayformat,whereplayers competeoverfourroundsofgolf.Thefieldconsistsofthe world'stopprofessionalgolfers,aswellasamateurplayerswho haveearnedinvitations.ThewinnerofTheMastersreceivesthe iconicGreenJacket,whichhasbecomesynonymouswiththe tournament.
Thesewerethetop10biggestsportingeventsintheworldthat youdon'twanttomissouton,whetheritbewatchingon televisionortravelingtothedestinationtoabsorbthebeautyof thegrandeventlive.
FROM CALIFORNIA VIBES TO ALL- INCLUSIVE GLOBAL FASHION BRAND Since sustainable and conscious fashion was
introduced in the fashion industry, many brands have taken the initiative to develop conscious fashion lines. While we see a lot of brands complying with this, there have been brands that have been in controversy regarding their nonsustainable products. One of those brands has been Hollister, a fast fashion retail brand that is known for its California vibes. In this article, we will learn more about the retail brand, its history, global presence, and marketing strategies.
TheFictionalBeginning Hollister,oftenknownasHCo.isaretailbrandownedbyAbercrombie&FitchCo.Itsellsapparel,accessories, andfragrances.ItopeneditsfirststoreonJuly27,2000,attheEastonTownCenterinColumbus,Ohio. Abercrombie&FitchlaunchedHollistertotargetayoungerdemographic,specificallyconsumersaged14-18, withitsSoCal-inspiredimageandcasualwear.Despiteitstargetagegroup,theappealofthebrandextends beyondteenagersandhasgainedpopularityamongawideraudience.
MikeJeffries,theformerCEOofAbercrombie&Fitch,createdafictionalbackgroundstorytoformtheconcept ofHollisterandprovideauniqueatmosphereforitsshoppers.Accordingtothefictionalstory-J.M.Hollister foundedthebrandin1922asaPacificmerchantshopinSouthernCalifornia.Thisfictionalbackstorywas designedtoattractconsumersandcreatealifestylebrandthatconsumerscouldengagewith.
Thebrandquicklygainedpopularityandexpandeditspresenceglobally.By2013,therewere587stores worldwide,generatingovertwobilliondollarsinsales.Thebrand'ssuccesscanbeattributedtoAbercrombie& Fitch'seffectivebrandpenetrationstrategies.
IsHollisterSustainable&Ethical? Hollisterhasbeeninquestionaboutitsethicalpracticesbecauseofitsfabricchoices.Itusesfabricslikemixed polyester,wool,down,leather,andotheranimal-basedmaterials.Ithasreceivedaratingof‘notgoodenough’in termsofsustainabilityon‘GoodOnYou’,aplatformthatevaluatesbrandsbasedontheirsustainabilitypractices.
Onitswebsite,thebrandhasmentionedthatitpracticessustainability,butthereisnoevidencethatitistaking meaningfulaction.Neithertoreduceoreliminatehazardouschemicalsinitsmanufacturingprocessesnortoprotect biodiversityinitssupplychain.Itreceivedalowratingfromexpertsforitslackofsupplychaintransparencyand useofsustainablematerials.Peoplehavecriticizedthebrandfornotbeingtransparentaboutworkingconditionsin itssupplychain.
Itfallsshortwhenitcomestotakingcareofitsworkers.Noneofitssupplychainiscertifiedtoensureworkerhealth, safety,andlaborrights.Accordingtothe2023FashionTransparencyIndex,Hollisterreceivedascoreof31-40%, whichisaslightimprovementfrombefore,butthere'sstillalongwaytogo.There'snoproofthatthebrand promotesdiversityandinclusioninitssupplychain.Italsousesfewlower-impactmaterials,andwhileitaimsto source25%ofitscottonsustainablyby2025,thisisstillasmallpercentageofitsoverallcottonusage.Despitethis, thebrandhasshownintentionsofintroducingmoresustainablematerials.
Hollister Challenges Faced by Hollister Hollister has faced several challenges, be it legal issues or controversies. Here are some challenges the brand went through.
The Trademark Battle
An article from the Los Angeles Times in April 2009 mentioned that Abercrombie & Fitch issued threats to the people of Hollister, California, who wanted to use the name "Hollister" on their clothing. It also shared a story from 2006 when Stacey Crummett, the CEO of Rag City Blues, added the word "Hollister" to the label of her vintage blue jeans. When Crummett applied to register this trademark, Abercrombie & Fitch's lawyers sent her a letter claiming she was infringing on their trademark and threatened to sue her. As a result, Crummett withdrew her application.
Morrisvs.Abercrombie&FitchCo.
In2007,therewasalawsuitcalledMorrisvs.Abercrombie&FitchCo.,anditwaseventuallysettled.Abercrombie&Fitch Co.admittedthattheymadeamistakebyaskingtheircustomersinCaliforniaforpersonalidentificationinformationwhen theyweregettingrefundsusingtheircreditcards.CustomerswhowereaskedforthisinformationbetweenJuly9,2005,and May31,2007,wereeligibletoreceivegiftcardsascompensation.Sincethesettlement,Abercrombie&FitchCo.stores havestoppedaskingforthisinformationwhencustomersreturnitemstheyboughtwithacreditcard.
WheelchairAccessibility InAugust2011,ajudgenamedWileyDanielruledthattwoHollisterstoresinColoradowerenotfollowingtheAmericans withDisabilitiesAct(ADA).Thiswasbecausethestoreshadentranceswithsteps,makingitdifficultforcustomersin wheelchairstoenter.Instead,theyhadtouseautomaticsidedoors.Thecaseexpandedintoanationwideclass-actionlawsuit in2012.InMarch2013,JudgeDanielruledinfavorofthepeoplewhofiledthelawsuit.Hefoundthatoutof483stores acrossthecountry,248ofthemhadentrancesthatviolatedtheADA.Itcametolightthatallofthesestoreswerebuiltafter theADAwasestablished.InAugust2013,ajudgeinColoradoruledthatHollisterCo.anditsparentcompany,Abercrombie &Fitch,hadtoredesign248storeswiththe"porchentrance"tomakethemwheelchairaccessible.
Religious Discrimination Claims A&Ffacedchargesofdiscriminationagainstan employeeataHollisterCo.storeinCalifornia.The employeeclaimedthattheywerecriticizedforwearing ahijabwhileworkingthere.Theemployeehadworn thehijabduringtheinterviewandwashiredthatway Duringtheconversation,theinterviewermentionedthat thehijabcouldonlybewornincertaincolors,likegray, navy,andwhite.However,aDistrictManagerlatertold theemployeetoremovethehijabwhileworking.
OnFebruary23,theCouncilonAmerican-IslamicRelations filedacomplaintagainstAbercrombie&Fitchwiththe federalEqualEmploymentOpportunityCommission.This wasnotthefirsttimeA&Ffacedsuchacomplaint.They hadreceivedasimilarcomplaintinSeptember2009, involvingasimilarcircumstanceinOklahoma.
MarketingStrategiesForSuccess Hollisterisknownforitslaid-back,California-inspiredstyle andstrongmarketingstrategiesthathelpeditreachsuccess. Hereareafewstrategiesitincorporatedtomakeaglobal name.
FocusedTargetAudienceReach ThetargetaudienceofHollisterprimarilyconsistsof teenagersandyoungadultswhoareinterestedinsurfing, skateboarding,andotheroutdooractivities.Itsfashionline appealstothetargetcustomer’sloveforcasual, comfortable,andfunctionalattire.Toeffectivelyreachand connectwithitsintendedaudience,thebrandusesdifferent marketingstrategies.
Itpartnerswithpopularsocialmediainfluencersand supportseventsandactivitiesthatmatchtheirbrandimage. Thiscreatesexcitementaroundthebrandandgivesvaluable insightsintowhatcustomerslike.Recently,thebrandmade changestobecomemoreinclusive.Theyintroducedaplussizerangeandexpandedtheirsizeoptionsforbothmenand women.
SocialMediaMarketing Hollisterusessocialmediaalottoengagewithits customers.TheyhaveaccountsonInstagram,Facebook, Snapchat,Twitter,TikTok,LinkedIn,andGlassdoortoreach awiderangeofpeople.Itpostsshortvideoseverydayto keepupwiththelatesttrendsonsocialmediaandhasrealtimeconversationswithitsfollowers.Thishelpsthebrand connectwithdifferenttypesofpeoplewhohavedifferent interests.
Oneimportantpartofitssocialmediastrategyisworking withinfluencers.Theyformlong-termpartnershipswith popularcontentcreatorsliketheD'Ameliosisterson TikTok.Thishelpsincreasethebrand'svisibilityandbuild trust,especiallyamonghighschoolstudentswhoarethe maintargetaudienceforHollister.
ExperimentalMarketing Thebrandbelievesincreatingmemorableand engagingexperiencesforitsaudiencethrough experientialmarketing.Itsmainaimistotransport customersintotheCalifornialifestyle,givingthema tasteoftheWestCoast.Itsstoresaredesignedto resemblecozybeachhouses,completewithwooden boardwalks,beach-themeddecorations,andeven lifeguardstands.Thebrandalsoorganizesin-store eventslikeconcerts,movienights,andsurfboard demonstrations.
Toenhancetheshoppingexperience,ithasalso introducedaugmentedreality(AR)features.This allowscustomerstovirtuallytryclothesonandsee howtheywouldlookindifferentsettings.Theyhave alsoimplementedinteractivefittingrooms,where customerscanrequestdifferentsizesandcolorsof clotheswithoutleavingthedressingroom.
RetailPartnerships Hollisterhasformedasignificantpartnershipwith GillyHicks,asubsidiaryofAbercrombie&Fitch.This collaborationallowsthebrandtoofferawiderrangeof productsandreachalargeraudiencebysharinga brandidentity Tomaintainastrongconnectionwithits targetaudience,ithasestablishedthe‘HollisterCreator Collective’.Thiscollectiveconsistsofmanymid-sized influencerswhocollaboratewiththebrandthroughout theyear.Byworkingwithadiversegroupof influencers,itensuresaconsistentpresenceand connectionwithitsaudience.
LatestSalesRevenue In2023,Hollistermadeanetsaleofovertwobillion U.S.dollars.AfteritsrebrandingandaTikTok campaign,ithasseenagrowthinitsin-storetrafficand revenue.InFebruaryandMarch,itsengagementrates weremorethan136%highercomparedtothesummer of2022,reachingall-timehighs.Inthefourthquarter oflastyear,itssalesgrewby9%,reaching$698 million.Thismarksthethirdconsecutivequarterof growthforthebrandandshowsthattheyare successfullyreconnectingwiththeirteenage customers.
Exploring the Glory that We Lost with Time Imagine standing on a porch on a bright, warm afternoon. The sky is full of pink and blue hues. The sun shines over your head. The fresh breeze has taken over the city. A long wooden cart patiently awaits the owner. The day is an ethereal brilliance.
I stepped into the cart with a journal in my hand. I had embarked on a new road, exploring the places- that wanted to share their stories with me. Places that are long lost in the world with the wheel of time.
What happened to them? What tales did they hide? Did they face a deadly war? Did they fail the test of time? Why were they built? I have a million questions in my mind, with an urge to nd their answers. I ordered the cart to go back in time.
Oldest Construction in the World that will Awe-Struck You: GOBEKLI TEPE GobekliTepeisanarchaeologicalmysterylocatedsixmiles fromtheancientcityofUrfainsoutheasternTurkey.Klaus Schmidt,aGermanarchaeologistfromthe1990s, discoveredthissite.ThissitepredatesStonehengeby6,000 years.
PopularlyknownastheBellyHillinTurkish,GobekliTepe islocatedinUpperMesopotamia.Thesitestandsasa witnesstothebirthoffarmingcommunities.Itportraysa pictureofritualsandsocialrelationshipsofprehistoric hunter-gatherergroups.
GobekliTepeisaman-mademonumentalarchitecturethat holdsuniqueT-shapedpillarsthatriseto5.50meters.The pillarsarecarvedwithvarioushumanandwildanimalsthat resemblemodern-daylions,foxes,bulls,andscorpions, witnessingproofofitsrichsymboliclanguage.Thesiteis
carvedoutoflimestoneandoffersaglimpseintothe distantpastofhumancivilization.Youmayask,what makesthissiterare?
GobekliTepe’smonumentalstructureschallengetheageoldnarrativesofearlyhumansocietaldevelopment.This sitewasbuiltintheprehistoricperiodbypeople-devoid ofmetaltoolsorpottery.Itcomprises20circlesof toweringstonepillarseach,weighingupto20tons.The structuresservedforsocialgatheringsandceremonies.
Schmidt,whohasexperienceinresearchformorethana decadeatthesite,isconvincedthatthesiterepresentsthe world’soldestgroupsoftemples.Hehintsthatthis templemightbethedawnoforganizedreligiousand communalpracticesandtheoldestconstructioninthe world.
Megalithic temples of Malta TheMegalithictemplesofMaltastandamongoneof theearlieststonebuildingsworldwideanddatebackto the4thand3rdcenturyB.C.Somehistoriansassume thistempletobetheoldestconstructionintheworld.
Theirentrancesleadthespectatortopavedcourts.We seesemi-circularchambersthatareknownasapsesin theinteriors.Thetemplesareconstructedwithlocal limestoneandshowremarkablecraftsmanship.They consistofdetaileddecorationofdrilledholesandpanels thatdisplayvariouspatterns.
TheislandsofMaltaandGozoarebuiltoutof7ancient megalithictemples.Eachofthemhasauniquehistory andsignificance.ThetemplesinMaltaliketheHagar Qim,Mnajdra,andTarxienshowitsrichtemplebuildingheritagetotheworld.Itisindeedfascinatingto knowhowthesetempleswerebuiltwithoutany modern-daytools.Thishighlightsthetalentandskillof thebuilders.
Thetempleisproofthatsocietyalwaysfollowedritual practices,evidenceofMalta’srichcultureandglory Maltaisoneofthemostbeautifulandoldest constructionsintheworld.
Uruk Uruk,popularlyknownasthebirthplaceofwriting,isanancientcityintheoldMesopotamia.Itholdsacrucialplacein historyforitscountlesscontributionstohumancivilization.Urukachievedpopularityinitseraforitslegendaryruler “Gilgamesh”.Hewasknownforreachingseveralessentialmilestonesinthedevelopmentofhumansocietyalongwitha questforeternallife.
Urukgrewinstrengthinthemodern-dayWarqa.ThisoldconstructionwasdiscoveredbyKingEnmerkarin4500BCE.The city’sculturallegacystandsfarbeyonditsarchitecture.Buriedforcenturies,itwasrediscoveredin1853byWilliamLoftus. Urukhaslayersofhistorywaitingtounfold.Itistheworld’sfirsttruecity,averywell-knowncivilization.
The Knap of Howar TheKnapofHowarislocatedonPapaWestrayIslandin Orkney,Scotland.ThenameoriginatesfromtheNorse language,whichmeans‘MoundsofMounds.’Thesiteholds asignificantplaceasitisoneoftheoldestconstructionsin theworld.Researchershavefoundproofofearlyhuman habitationandagriculturaldevelopmentthrough archeologicalexcavation.Theresearchfromthissitecould leadustoourrichpast.
TheKnapofHowarshowsaglimpseintoancienthistory
ThisNeolithicsitedatesbackto3700-3500BCE.Itisthe mostancientstonehouseinnorthernEurope.Thesitehas shownsignificantpreservationandarchitecturaltalent.The Knapconsistsoftwoadjacentbuildingsconnectedbya passage.House1hasstrongstonepartitions,ahearth,anda cupboard,assumingitwasastoragehouse.
Tumulus of Bougon TheTumulusofBougonispartofaserenelandnamedBougon,locatedinwesternFrance.
TheTumulusisapowerfulrepresentationofcreativity,innovation,andculturalpride.Itisbuiltupoflargeearthlyorstone burialmounds.Theimpressivebarrowswereconstructedbetween4700and3500B.C.andbelongtotheNeolithicperiod. TheTumulusrepresentssomeoftheearliestexamplesofmegalithicarchitecturealongtheeasterncoastofFrance.Thissite isconsideredtheoldestconstructionintheworld,especiallyinFrance.
Thetombhasacomplexstructureandisbuiltoffivetombs,eachwithadifferentarchitecturalstyle.Theexcavationofthe sitehasbroughtupvarioustreasures,including220skeletonsandotherarticlesinthegrave.Thesegravesthrowlightonthe ancientburialpracticesandrituals.
EXPLORING THE OLDEST CONSTRUCTION IN THE WORLD: Thesewerethefirstfewpagesofmyjournalthatrevealedthepagesofhumanwonderstotheworld.Morepagesarewaiting tobediscovered.Ourlandsarefullofunspokencitiesandunknowntales.Eachoftheselocationsiswaitingtobeuncovered byus.Thedeepoceans,wideskies,andmysticlands-allwithdifferentstoriestotell.Areyoureadytohearone?
Theworldisfullofwondersandexquisiteexperiences.Areyoureadytowriteyourjournal?
