Nagpur: The Orange City of India

• Helloनमस्कार
  [Namaskar]
• Goodbyeअलविदा
  [Alvida]
• Yesहो
  [Ho]
• Noनाही
  [Nahi]
• Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [Kripaya]
• Thank youधन्यवाद
  [Dhanyavad]
• Excuse me/Sorryक्षमा करा
  [Kshama kara]
• How are you?तुम्ही कसे आहात?
  [Tumhi kase aahat?]
• Fine. And you?ठीक आहे. आणि तुम्ही?
  [Theek aahe. Ani tumhi?]
• Do you speak English?तुम्हाला इंग्रजी बोलायचे आहे का?
  [Tumhala English bolayche aahe ka?]
• I don't understandमला समजलं नाही
  [Mala samajla nahi]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेनू पहा
  [Kripaya menu paha]
• I don't eat meatमी मास हे खात नाही
  [Mi maas he khat nahi]
• Cheers!उबदार!
  [Ubadar]
• I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मी करणार आहे
  [Kripaya mi karanar aahe]

• Help!मदत!
  [Madat!]
• Go away!निघा!
  [Nigha!]
• Call the Police!पोलीसला कॉल करा!
  [Police la call kara!]
• Call a doctor!डॉक्टरला कॉल करा!
  [Doctor la call kara!]
• I'm lostमी हरलो
  [Mi harlo]
• I'm illमला आजार आहे
  [Mala ajar aahe]

• I'd like to buy...मला ... विकत घ्यायचं आहे
  [Mala ... vikat ghayach aahe]
• I'm just lookingमी फक्त बघत आहे
  [Mi fakt baghat aahe]
• How much is it?ते किती आहे?
  [Te kiti aahe?]
• That's too expensiveहा खूप महाग आहे
  [Ha khup mahag aahe]
• Can you lower the price?किंमत कमी करू शकता का?
  [Kimat kami karu shakta ka?]

• What time is it?आता किती वाजलं आहे?
  [Ata kiti vajal aahe?]
• It's one o'clockएक वाजलं आहे
  [Ek vajal aahe]
• Half past (10)दहा वाजलं
  [Daha vajal]
• Morningसकाळ
  [Sakal]
• Afternoonदुपार
  [Dupar]
• Eveningसंध्याकाळ
  [Sandhyakal]
• Yesterdayकाल
  [Kal]
• Todayआज
  [Aaj]
• Tomorrowउद्या
  [Udya]
• 1एक
  [Ek]
• 2दोन
  [Don]
• 3तीन
  [Teen]
• 4चार
  [Char]
• 5पाच
  [Pach]
• 6सहा
  [Saha]
• 7सात
  [Sat]
• 8आठ
  [Ath]
• 9नऊ
  [Nau]
• 10दहा
  [Daha]

• Where's a/the...?एक/त्या... कुठे आहे?
  [Ek/tya... kuthhe aahe?]
• What's the address?पत्ता काय आहे?
  [Patta kay aahe?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?तुम्हाला दाखवू शकता का (नक्काशावर)?
  [Tumhala dakhavu shakta ka (nakkashavar)?]
• When's the next (bus)?पुढचं (बस) कधी आहे?
  [Pudhach (bus) kadhi aahe?]
• A ticket (to ....)एक टिकिट (.... ला)
  [Ek ticket (.... la)]

Nagpur, often referred to as the 'Orange City' due to its famous oranges, was founded in the early 18th century by the Gond King Bakht Buland Shah. The city initially served as the capital of the Nagpur Kingdom. The Marathas later took control of Nagpur in the mid-18th century under the leadership of Raghoji Bhonsale, marking the beginning of Maratha influence in the region.

Nagpur played a significant role during the Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-1818). The city witnessed the Battle of Sitabuldi, where the Maratha forces under Appa Sahib fought against the British East India Company. Despite intense resistance, the British emerged victorious, leading to the annexation of Nagpur into the British Empire under the doctrine of lapse in 1853.

Under British rule, Nagpur was transformed into a major administrative and commercial center. The city became the capital of the Central Provinces and Berar in 1861. The British introduced railway lines, connecting Nagpur to major cities like Mumbai and Kolkata, which significantly boosted trade and commerce in the region. Key infrastructures such as the Nagpur Central Museum and the Empress Mills were established during this period.

One of the most significant cultural events in Nagpur's history is the mass conversion ceremony led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on October 14, 1956, at Deekshabhoomi. Dr. Ambedkar, a prominent social reformer and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, along with thousands of his followers, converted to Buddhism in a bid to escape the caste discrimination pervasive in Hindu society. This event marked a pivotal moment in the Dalit Buddhist movement.

Nagpur was a hub for the Indian independence movement. The city hosted the annual session of the Indian National Congress in 1920, which was pivotal in endorsing the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. Prominent leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose frequently visited Nagpur during the freedom struggle, and the city saw numerous protests and civil disobedience movements against British rule.

After India's independence in 1947, Nagpur saw rapid industrial and infrastructural development. The city became a major center for education, with institutions like the Nagpur University gaining prominence. The establishment of the Multi-modal International Cargo Hub and Airport at Nagpur (MIHAN) in the early 21st century marked a significant leap towards making Nagpur a global logistics and cargo hub.

Nagpur is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich tradition of festivals and cultural events. The city celebrates the Ganesh Chaturthi festival with great fervor, featuring elaborate processions and artistic displays. The Kalidas Festival, held annually, is a significant cultural event dedicated to the classical poet Kalidasa, featuring performances in music, dance, and theatre from artists across India.

Nagpur boasts several architectural landmarks that reflect its rich history. The Sitabuldi Fort, a reminder of the Battle of Sitabuldi, offers panoramic views of the city. The Zero Mile Stone, marking the geographical center of India, is another iconic structure. The Dragon Palace Temple, with its serene ambiance and beautiful architecture, is a testament to Nagpur's spiritual heritage.

Nagpur is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, located about 8 kilometers from the city center. It has regular flights from major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Kolkata. Nagpur Junction is a major railway station on the Indian Railways network, offering extensive connectivity to various parts of the country. For road travelers, Nagpur is accessible via National Highways 44, 47, and 353, making it convenient for those driving from nearby cities and states.

Nagpur offers a variety of transportation options. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are common for short-distance travel. App-based cab services like Uber and Ola are available for more convenient and comfortable rides. The city also has a network of city buses operated by NMPL (Nagpur Mahanagar Parivahan Limited). For a more personalized experience, you can rent a car from local agencies. Nagpur Metro, though still expanding, provides a fast and efficient way to travel across key areas of the city.

The official currency in Nagpur is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in local markets and for transportation. ATMs are widely available throughout the city. Mobile payment options like Paytm, Google Pay, and PhonePe are also commonly used and accepted in many establishments.

Nagpur is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's essential to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas after dark and be cautious of your surroundings in crowded places. Areas like Sitabuldi and Itwari can be bustling and may have instances of pickpocketing. It's always wise to keep your belongings secure and stay alert. Trustworthy transportation options include app-based cabs and verified hotel taxis.

In case of emergencies, dial 112 for immediate assistance. For medical emergencies, major hospitals like Orange City Hospital, Wockhardt Hospital, and Alexis Multispeciality Hospital are well-equipped. Police assistance can be sought at local police stations, and pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering temples and cover your head when required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Nagpur like a local, visit the local markets such as Sitabuldi and Sadar for a variety of goods and street food. Engage with locals who are usually friendly and eager to share cultural insights. Don’t miss the famous oranges of Nagpur, often referred to as the 'Orange City'. For a unique experience, visit the Deekshabhoomi, a significant Buddhist monument, and participate in a local cultural fest if your visit coincides with one.