PV Sindhu Biography- Age, Marriage, Career, Records and Net Worth

PV Sindhu is one of India’s most celebrated badminton players, known for her exceptional skills, perseverance, and determination. Born on July 5, 1995, in Hyderabad, Telangana, Sindhu has become an icon in Indian sports, inspiring countless youngsters to pursue badminton as a career. With her consistent performances on the international stage, she has earned numerous accolades, including an Olympic silver medal and a World Championship gold medal.

PV Sindhu Biography

PV Sindhu was born into a family with a strong sports background. Her parents, PV Ramana and P. Vijaya, were professional volleyball players, with her father being a recipient of the Arjuna Award for his contributions to the sport. Inspired by her parents’ dedication to sports, Sindhu developed an interest in badminton at the tender age of eight.

She started training under the guidance of Mehboob Ali and later joined the prestigious Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy, where she honed her skills and emerged as a formidable player.

PV Sindhu Age

As of 2024, PV Sindhu is 29 years old. Despite being relatively young, she has achieved incredible success in her career. Her dedication to fitness and training has allowed her to maintain peak performance over the years, making her one of the top players in the world.

PV Sindhu Career

Rise to Fame

PV Sindhu’s career began to gain momentum in 2012 when she broke into the international badminton circuit. Her notable achievements during this period include:

Winning the Asian Youth Under-19 Championship in 2012.
Defeating Olympic champion Li Xuerui at the China Masters in 2012.

Major Achievements

Sindhu’s career is marked by her remarkable consistency and ability to perform under pressure. Some of her most significant achievements include:

Olympic Glory

Sindhu won the silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, becoming the first Indian woman to achieve this feat in badminton.
She followed it up with a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest players in the sport.

World Championships

PV Sindhu made history in 2019 by becoming the first Indian to win a gold medal at the BWF World Championships.
She has also secured multiple medals at the event, including two silvers and two bronzes.

Other Titles

Sindhu has won prestigious tournaments like the India Open, Korea Open, and the Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2022.

PV Sindhu Marriage

Badminton champion PV Sindhu tied the knot with Venkata Datta Sai in a traditional Telugu ceremony held in Udaipur The groom, Venkata Datta Sai, is a Hyderabad-based entrepreneur and serves as the Executive Director of Posidex Technologies. Known for his reserved nature, Datta Sai has remained largely out of the public eye but has gained attention following the wedding announcement.

PV Sindhu’s Net Worth

PV Sindhu’s net worth is estimated to be around ₹60 crore as of 2024. Her earnings come from:

Tournament winnings: Sindhu has earned significant prize money from her victories in international competitions.
Endorsements: She is one of the most marketable athletes in India, endorsing brands like Li-Ning, Bank of Baroda, Bridgestone, and Gatorade.
Awards and Recognition: Sindhu has received financial incentives and awards from various state governments and organizations for her achievements.

PV Sindhu Records

PV Sindhu holds several records in the world of badminton, including:

Youngest Indian woman to win an Olympic silver medal.
First Indian to win a World Championship gold medal in badminton.
One of the few players to have defeated world champions like Carolina Marin and Tai Tzu Ying multiple times.
Multiple-time winner of the Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (now Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna).

Top-10 Most Expensive Woods in the World, Check the List

Wood is a natural material used in furniture, tools and decoration. It comes from trees and has been important for humans for centuries. Some woods are common and affordable, while others are rare and expensive due to their beauty, durability or unique features, making them valuable for luxury items and special projects. In this article, we will know about the top-10 most expensive woods in the world.

What makes Some Woods Expensive than Others?

The value of wood depends on its features, usefulness, demand and availability. Some woods are expensive due to their beauty, strength or durability. Rare woods are costlier, especially if they are hard to find. Demand and scarcity also raise prices. Hardwoods, like oak, are usually pricier than softwoods because they grow slower and are more durable. Versatile woods like pine are affordable due to their easy availability. Deforestation has made woods rare and expensive.

World’s Most Expensive Wood 2024

African Blackwood, or Mpingo, is a highly prized wood known for its deep, rich color, fine grain and exceptional durability. Found in Central and Southern Africa, it is used in luxury furniture and musical instruments. Price around $10,000 per cubic meter, it is an endangered species that takes up to 60 years to mature, making it a rare gem in woodworking.

Top-10 Most Expensive Woods in the World as of 2024

Some woods are extremely rare and valuable due to their beauty, strength and limited availability. In 2024, these are the top-10 most expensive woods prized worldwide for their unique qualities.

Rank	Wood Name	Price
1.	African Blackwood	$10,000 per cubic meter
2.	Pink Ivory	$8,000 per cubic meter
3.	Agarwood	Up to $100,000 per kilogram
4.	Sandalwood	$25,000 per ton
5.	Ebony	$10,000 per cubic meter
6.	Lignum Vitae	Starting $5,000 per cubic meter
7.	Brazilian Rosewood	Up to $17,000 per cubic meter
8.	Purpleheart	Starting $1,200 per cubic meter
9.	Snakewood	Exceeding $2,500 per cubic meter
10.	Bubinga	$1,800 per cubic meter

India’s First Bio-Bitumen Stretch Inaugurated by Nitin Gadkari

India’s First Bio-Bitumen NH Stretch Inaugurated by Nitin Gadkari

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, inaugurated India’s first bio-bitumen-based National Highway stretch on NH-44 in Mansar, Nagpur, Maharashtra. This stretch is a milestone in India’s road development sector, being the first to employ lignin-based bio-bitumen technology. The technology, developed by Praj Industries, in collaboration with CSIR – Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and Oriental, represents a significant step forward in India’s sustainability and self-reliance goals.

Key Points From Inauguration of Event

Bio-Bitumen Technology

The stretch on NH-44 is developed using lignin-based bio-bitumen technology, which is a breakthrough in flexible pavement construction.
Praj Industries and CSIR-CRRI collaborated on this innovation, marking a significant leap in road construction technology.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Lignin, a by-product of plant biomass, is used as a sustainable binder for road construction.
This innovation can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70% when compared to fossil-based bitumen.
By utilizing lignocellulosic biomass, the technology addresses issues such as bitumen scarcity and import dependency (currently, India imports 50% of its bitumen).
The development generates additional revenue for bio-refineries and mitigates the environmental problem of stubble burning.

Economic and Agricultural Benefits

The use of agricultural waste like rice straw (parali) in producing bio-bitumen can help alleviate the pollution caused by stubble burning, especially in Punjab and Haryana.
In turn, this creates value for farmers, turning them into ‘bitumendata’ (producers of bio-bitumen) in addition to their traditional role as ‘annadata’ (food producers) and ‘urjadata’ (energy producers).

Vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat

Nitin Gadkari emphasized that this initiative fits with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
The technology will support large-scale domestic production of bio-bitumen, promoting industrial sustainability and reducing India’s dependence on imports.

CNG From Biomass Products

Gadkari mentioned that there are currently 400 projects in the country aiming to produce CNG from biomass, which is cheaper and cleaner than petrol.
60 lakh tonnes of parali have already been used in these projects, helping reduce pollution and benefiting farmers.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	India’s First Bio-Bitumen Stretch Inaugurated by Nitin Gadkari
Location	Mansar, Nagpur, Maharashtra, on NH-44
Key Technology	Lignin-based bio-bitumen developed by Praj Industries in collaboration with CSIR-CRRI.
Environmental Benefits	Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 70% compared to fossil-based bitumen.
Economic Impact	Reduces India’s import dependency on bitumen (currently 50%).
Agricultural Impact	Helps reduce stubble burning and provides additional revenue for farmers.
Sustainability Goals	Aligns with India’s vision for sustainable industrial growth and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
CNG from Biomass Projects	400 projects in process, 60 lakh tonnes of parali used in CNG production, reducing pollution.
Social Impact	Farmers will benefit from the use of agricultural waste in bio-bitumen production.

In Which District of Uttar Pradesh is the Tomb of Bahu Begum Located?

The Tomb of Bahu Begum is a historical monument located in Uttar Pradesh. It was built in memory of Bahu Begum, the wife of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula. The tomb showcases beautiful Mughal architecture with intricate carvings, arches and a grand dome. It is a significant symbol of love, respect, and the Mughal influence in the region.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India, with over 241 million people, making it the most populated state in India and the fifth most populous region in the world. It borders Rajasthan, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Nepal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. The state covers an area of 243,286 square kilometers and has Lucknow as its capital, with Prayagraj serving as the judicial capital.

Number of Districts in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has 75 districts and 1 temporary district. These districts, each with a population of over 12 lakhs, are organized into 18 divisions for better administration and management.

Location of Tomb of Bahu Begum

The Tomb of Bahu Begum is a famous monument located in the Faizabad district (now Ayodhya) of Uttar Pradesh. It is known for its stunning architecture and rich history, making it a popular tourist destination. Let’s explore more about this beautiful structure.

Significance of Tomb of Bahu Begum

The Tomb of Bahu Begum is situated on Maqbara Road, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh. It holds cultural and historical importance as a symbol of the Ganga-Yamuna culture, representing the blend of different traditions and histories. The tomb is dedicated to Bahu Begum, the wife of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula, and is a prominent landmark in the regino.

Architecture of the Tomb

The tomb showcases Awadhi architecture, a style known for its intricate designs and beautiful craftsmanship. It features three domes, detailed interiors, and well-designed walls and ceilings. The monument’s grandeur and beauty make it a standout example of Mughal and Awadhi styles of architecture.

History and Construction of Tomb of Bahu Begum

The Tomb of Bahu Begum was built in 1816 by Darab Ali Khan, the son of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula. It stands out as a memorial to Unmatuzzohra Bano, the queen of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula. The tomb is often referred to as the “Taj Mahal of the East” due to its majestic appearance and historical significance.

Height and Recognition of the Tomb

At a height of 335 feet (102 meters), the Tomb of Bahu Begum is the tallest monument in Faizabad. It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), ensuring its preservation for future generations.

List of International Recognition Awards to PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has earned numerous international awards over the years, reflecting his diplomatic leadership and India’s growing global influence. His recent award, the Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer from Kuwait, marks his 20th prestigious international honor. These recognitions acknowledge his contributions to diplomacy, global peace, cultural ties, and strategic relations across different regions. The honors further elevate India’s global stature under his leadership.

International Awards by PM Modi in 2024

In 2024, Prime Minister of India Awarded with different countries highest award for various decisions. The list of awards won by PM in 2024 are mentioned below.

Name of the Award	Country Name (Purpose/Info.)
Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer	Kuwait (For symbolizing his contributions to fostering global partnerships and India’s growing influence on the world stage.)
Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados	Barbados (Awarded for fostering global partnerships and strengthening India-Barbados ties.)
Order of Excellence	Guyana (Recognized for contributions during the pandemic and strengthening ties with Caribbean countries.)
Dominica Award of Honour	Dominica (Recognized for advancing diplomatic relations with Dominica and global outreach.)
Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger	Nigeria (Awarded for bolstering India-Nigeria relations and bilateral cooperation.)
Order of St. Andrew the Apostle	Russia (Conferred for enhancing the strategic partnership between India and Russia.)
Order of the Druk Gyalpo	Bhutan (Bhutan’s highest award, recognizing PM Modi’s role in strengthening India-Bhutan relations.)

Awards of PM Modi Earlier

Name of the Award	Country Name and Year (Purpose)
Grand Cross of the Order of Honour	Greece-2023 (Recognized for achievements in diplomacy and strengthening India-Greece relations.)
Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour	France-2023 (France’s highest honor awarded for efforts to deepen Indo-French relations.)
Order of the Nile	Egypt-2023 (Egypt’s highest civilian honor for promoting global peace and bilateral cooperation.)
Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu	Papua New Guinea-2023 (Recognized for strengthening India’s ties with Pacific nations and the Indo-Pacific region.)
Legion of Merit	United States of America-2020 (Awarded for elevating India-US strategic cooperation to new heights.)
King Hamad Order of the Renaissance	Bahrain-2019 (Presented for strengthening India-Bahrain relations, particularly in commerce and culture.)
Order of Zayed	UAE-2019 (UAE’s highest civilian honor recognizing PM Modi’s contributions to India-UAE relations.)
Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen	Maldives-2019 (Awarded for strengthening India-Maldives relations and maritime cooperation.)
Grand Collar of the State of Palestine	Palestine-2018 (Honored for bolstering India-Palestine relations and supporting Palestine’s aspirations.)
Amir Amanullah Khan Award	Afghanistan-2016 (Afghanistan’s top civilian honor for contributions to India-Afghanistan developmental partnerships.)
King Abdulaziz Sash	Saudi Arabia-2016 (Saudi Arabia’s highest civilian honor awarded for strengthening ties with the Kingdom.)

Third Fastest List-A Century Anmolpreet’s Record Breaking Knock

Punjab’s top order batter, Anmolpreet Singh, scripted a history by scoring a third fastest List A century in just 35 balls during Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Arunachal Pradesh in Ahmedabad. This incredible feat places him behind only Jake Fraser McGurk (29 Balls) and AB de villiers (31 Balls) in all time records for List A centuries.

Historic Century

Anmolpreet scored a 35-ball century, the third-fastest in List A cricket history.
His knock included 11 fours and 8 sixes.
He targeted Arunachal Pradesh’s off-spinner Techi Neri, taking 31 runs off a single over.

Match Impact

Punjab chased Arunachal Pradesh’s total of 164 runs in just 12.5 overs, securing a nine-wicket win.
Anmolpreet finished with 115 runs in 45 balls, hitting one additional four and six after his century.
His batting partner, Prabhsimran Singh, contributed an unbeaten 35 off 25 balls.

List A Record Context

Jake Fraser-McGurk holds the record for the fastest List A century (29 balls) for South Australia in 2023.
AB de Villiers scored a 31-ball century for South Africa against the West Indies in 2015, the fastest in ODIs and List A at that time.
Corey Anderson previously held the record with a 36-ball century for New Zealand in 2014.

Career Snapshot

Anmolpreet has played in the IPL for Mumbai Indians (MI) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) but had moderate success.
He went unsold in the latest IPL auction, despite his domestic cricket prowess.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Third Fastest List-A Century Anmolpreet’s Record Breaking Knock
Achievement	Third-fastest List A century (35 balls)
Record Holders Above Him	Jake Fraser McGurk (29 Balls) and AB De Villiers (31 Balls)
Performance	115 runs off 45 balls (11 fours, 9 sixes) against Arunachal Pradesh
IPL Career	Played for Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad, went unsold in latest IPL auction

Epigamia Co-Founder Rohan Mirchandani Passes Away 42

Epigamia Co-Founder Rohan Mirchandani Passes Away at 42

Rohan Mirchandani, the co-founder of the popular brand Epigamia, tragically passed away at the age of 42. known for his entrepreneurial spirit and visionary leadership, Rohan played a pivotal role in transforming Epigamia into a household name. His untimely demise has left the business community and his admirers deeply saddened.

About Rohan Mirchandani

Co-founder of Epigamia, one of India’s leading yogurt brands.
Instrumental in introducing Greek yogurt to the Indian market.
Known for his innovative approach to making healthy eating accessible and trendy.

Contributions to Epigamia

Founded in 2015, Epigamia became synonymous with premium and health-focused dairy products.
Expanded the brand’s portfolio to include lactose-free products, plant-based yogurts, and smoothies.
Partnered with global and local investors, raising funds to scale the business nationwide.

Legacy and Impact

Rohan’s leadership propelled Epigamia to the forefront of India’s health and wellness food sector.
Inspired budding entrepreneurs through his journey of building a brand from the ground up.
Remembered for his charismatic personality and dedication to promoting better nutrition.

Condolences and Tributes

Tributes poured in from the business community, colleagues, and friends.
Many acknowledged his contribution to revolutionizing India’s dairy industry.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Epigamia Co-Founder Rohan Mirchandani Passes Away 42
Role	Co-Founder of Epigamia
Founded Epigamia	In 2025
Key Achievements	Introduced Greek Yogurt in India Expanded into lactose-free and plant-based products.
Business Legacy	Elevated Epigamia to a leading health focused food brand in India.
Industry Impact	Revolutionized India’s dairy and Healthy Food Sector.
Significance	Left a lasting impact on India’s food industry and budding entrepreneurs

India Clinches Women’s U19 T20 Asia Cup title

India clinched the inaugural U10 Women’s Asia cup T20 title by defeating Bangladesh by 41 runs in the final held at the Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur on December 22, 2024. The victory was powered by a stellar half century from Gongadi Trisha and an impressive bowling performance, highlighting India’s dominance in the tournament.

India’s Innings

Total score: India scored 117/7 in 20 overs.
Star Performers: Gongadi Trisha scored a brilliant 52 off 47 balls, including 5 fours and 2 sixes.
Late contributions: Mithila Vinod added crucial runs with a 12 ball 17.

Bangladesh’s Bowling

Farjana Easmin: 4-0-31-4
Nishita Akter Nishi: Took 2 key wickets to restrict India

Bangladesh Chase

Top Scorer of the team are Fahomida Choya with 18 runs and Juairiya Ferdous with 22 runs.

India Bowling Highlights

Aayushi Shukla: Tournament’s top wicket tacker, claimed 3/17 in 3.3 overs.
Sonam Yadav and Parunika Sisodia: Took 2 wickets each.
VJ Joshitha: Took the early wickets of Eva for a duck.
Collapse: Bangladesh lost their last 7 wickets for just 21 runs in 40 balls.

Key Players

India: Gongadi Trisha (52 Runs), Aayushi Shukla (3 Wickets), Sonam Yadav, Parunika Sisodia
Bangladesh: Farjana Easmin (4 Wickets), Juairiya Ferdous (22 Runs)

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	India Clinches Women’s U19 T20 Asia Cup Title
Date and Venue	December 22, 2024, Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Winner	India
Runner-Up	Bangladesh
India’s Score	117/7 (20 overs)
Bangladesh’s Score	76 all out
Match Highlights	– Gongadi Trisha’s half-century – Bangladesh collapsed, losing 7 wickets for 21 runs
Significance	India crowned inaugural Women’s U19 T20 Asia Cup champions

Govt Infuses ₹500 Cr in IFCI to Boost Financial Health

The Indian government has decided to infuse ₹500 crore into the state-owned Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI) to strengthen its financial health ahead of the company’s restructuring. This infusion will likely increase the government’s stake in IFCI beyond its current holding of 71.72% as of September 2024. The decision was approved as part of the first Supplementary Demand for Grants for 2024-25 in the Lok Sabha, with funds reallocated from savings in the capital section, ensuring no additional cash outflow.

Capital Infusion and Financial Health

The ₹500 crore capital infusion follows earlier efforts to stabilize IFCI, including a ₹500 crore raise through equity shares earlier this year. Despite these efforts, IFCI faced a ₹22 crore loss in Q2 of FY24, accumulating a total loss of ₹170 crore in the first half of the fiscal year. The government’s continued support aims to stabilize the financial institution and prepare it for upcoming structural changes.

Restructuring Plans for IFCI Group

A major part of the government’s strategy includes the proposed restructuring and consolidation of IFCI’s group companies. The Ministry of Finance has approved the amalgamation of IFCI with StockHolding Corporation of India Ltd, IFCI Factors Ltd, and other subsidiaries like IFCI Infrastructure Development Ltd. This restructuring aims to create a unified, stronger entity to better meet the financial demands of India’s industrial and infrastructure sectors.

Legacy and Evolution of IFCI

Established in 1948 as India’s first Development Financial Institution, IFCI has played a pivotal role in financing critical projects across various sectors. Over the years, it has evolved from a statutory corporation to a public limited company and, in 2015, became a public sector company with the government’s stake crossing 51%. This infusion and restructuring reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to maintain IFCI’s relevance in India’s financial ecosystem and ensure its capacity to support industrial and infrastructural growth.

Summary of the news

Why in News	Key Points
Government Infuses ₹500 Cr in IFCI	– The Indian government has decided to infuse ₹500 crore into IFCI to improve its financial health.
Government Stake	– The government’s holding in IFCI is 71.72% as of September 2024. This infusion will likely increase the stake further.
Capital Allocation	– The capital infusion was approved as part of the Supplementary Demand for Grants for 2024-25 in the Lok Sabha.
Losses of IFCI	– IFCI reported a ₹22 crore loss in Q2 FY24 and ₹170 crore loss in the first half of FY24.
Earlier Fundraising	– Earlier in FY24, IFCI raised ₹500 crore through equity shares issued to the government.
Restructuring Plan	– IFCI is undergoing restructuring with the proposed consolidation of its subsidiaries, including StockHolding Corporation of India, IFCI Factors Ltd, etc.
Year of Establishment	– IFCI was established on July 1, 1948, as India’s first Development Financial Institution.
Transition of IFCI	– In 1993, IFCI transitioned from a statutory corporation to a company under the Indian Companies Act, 1956.
Public Sector Status	– In 2015, the government raised its stake in IFCI to over 51%, making it a public sector company.

Top-10 Tourist Places in Uttar Pradesh, Check the List

Uttar Pradesh, a state in northern India, is home to many famous tourist attractions. From ancient temples to historical monuments, the state offers a rich cultural experience for travelers. Here is a list of the top-10 tourist places in Uttar Places to explore.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India with over 241 million people, making it the most populated state in India and the most populated subdivision in the world. It makes up 16.5% of India’s population and about 3% of the world’s population. Uttar Pradesh is bordered by Rajasthan, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Nepal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.

Top-10 Tourist Places in Uttar Pradesh to Visit

Uttar Pradesh is home to many famous tourist spots, offering a blend of history, culture and spirituality. From the iconic Taj Mahal to ancient temples, here are the top-10 must-visit places in the state.

Rank	Attraction	Location
1.	Ayodhya	Ayodhya
2.	Taj Mahal	Agra
3.	Varanasi	Varanasi
4.	Lucknow	Lucknow
5.	Mathura	Mathura
6.	Fatehpur Sikri	Fatehpur Sikri
7.	Sarnath	Near Varanasi
8.	Allahabad	Prayagraj
9.	Vrindavan	Vrindavan
10.	Jhansi	Jhansi

Ayodhya

Ayodhya is a city in Uttar Pradesh, India, located on the banks of the Sarayu River. It is known as the birthplace of the Hindu god Rama, making it an important pilgrimage site. Historically, the city was called Saketa. Ayodhya is famous for the Babri mosque, which was demolished in 1992. In 2019, the Supreme Court ruled that the land should be used to build the Ram Mandir, which was consecrated in 2024.

The Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is a beautiful white marble mausoleum in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Completed in 1653, it is a symbol of love and an example of Mughal architecture. The complex includes a mosque, a guest house and gardens. It attracts millions of tourists annually and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is one of the oldest cities in the world, located on the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a major pilgrimage site, famous for its ghats, temples and rituals. The city is known for its rich history, religious significance and cultural heritage, including music, education and crafts. Varanasi is home to notable institutions like Banaras Hindu University and has been an important center of learning and spirituality.

Lucknow

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich history and culture. Famous for its Mughal-era landmarks like the Bara International and the Rumi Darwaza, the city showcases stunning architecture. Lucknow is also renowned for its Awadhi cuisine, especially Kebabs and biryanis. In 2024, the city attracted 48 million visitors, including 1.2 million international tourists, drawn by its heritage, vibrant markets and unique culinary delights.

Mathura

Mathura, located in Uttar Pradesh, is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and a major Hindu pilgrimage site. The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, marking his birth, attracts thousands of devotees daily. Visitors can also explore Vrindavan, known for its connection to Krishna’s childhood. Mathura is famous for its local sweet “peda” and vibrant festivals like Janmashtami. In 2024, the city welcomed 45 million visitors, drawn by its temples, rituals, and cultural significance.

Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri, located in Uttar Pradesh, was founded by Emperor Akbar in 1571 as the Mughal capital. It served as the capital until 1585 before being abandoned in 1610. The city, known for its historical and architectural significance, was built to commemorate Sheikh Salim Chishti, who predicted the birth of Akbar’s son. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, Fatehpur Sikri attracts visitors for its rich Mughal heritage and stunning monuments.

Sarnath

Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment. The Dhamek Stupa, known for its beautiful carvings, marks this historic event. The Sarnath Archaeological Museum displays artifacts and sculptures related to Buddha’s life. In 2024, Sarnath attracted 12 million visitors, including pilgrims and history enthusiasts, drawn by its spiritual and historical significance.

Prayagraj

Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad, is a key religious site located at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati rivers. The city is famous for the Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, drawing millions for ritual bathing. Attractions include the Triveni Sangam, Anand Bhawan and Allahabad Fort. In 2024, Prayagraj welcomed around 10 million visitors, mainly for the Kumbh Mela and other religious events.

Vrindavan

Vrindavan, near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, is a sacred town, connected to Lord Krishna’s childhood. It is home to many temples like Banke Bihari and ISKCON, attracting pilgrims year-round. The town is known for its vibrant festivals, especially Holi and lively evenings filled with devotional songs. Visitors can enjoy traditional crafts and sweets like “laddoo.” In 2024, Vrindavan welcomed around 8 million visitors, drawn by its spiritual significance and festivities.

Jhansi

Jhansi, in Uttar Pradesh, is famous for its role in India’s fight for independence, especially the bravery of Rani Lakshmibai during the 1857 rebellion. The Jhansi Fort, perched on a hill, is a key attraction, showcasing ancient architecture. Visitors can explore palaces, temples, and learn about the legends of Rani Lakshmibai’s leadership. In 2024, Jhansi attracted about 5 million visitors, drawn by its rich history and connection to India’s struggle for freedom.